What support measures, if any, is the Government providing to bars, cafés, restaurants, and accommodation providers facing financial distress?

Answer

The Government has recently undertaken a number of initiatives to support the tourism and hospitality sector. This includes the $70 million Major Events and Tourism package, which is bringing in more international visitors to New Zealand and helping to disperse spending across the country. Of this, $10 million was allocated to a second round of the Regional Tourism Boost, which included promoting hospitality experiences. I am jointly responsible for the Hospitality Review, announced last October, with the Minister for Regulation. I have heard from the sector that unnecessary red tape and inconsistent regulation is hindering industry growth and the Review is an opportunity to address this. I expect to receive recommendations from the Ministry for Regulation in July.