22 Oct 2009

Niue tourism report calls for airport upgrade and tax changes

1:46 pm on 22 October 2009

A report looking at Niue's tourism industry is recommending changes to taxation, property rights and improvements to the airport.

The report was drawn up by New Zealand tourism industry expert, Trevor Hall, whose views were sought by the New Zealand Foreign Minister, Murray McCully.

Megan Whelan has more.

"The report says Niue's airport may need upgrades, including to the navigational aids and lighting, and possibly the runway, to secure ongoing services to the island. It says the New Zealand or Niue governments will need to be prepared to underwrite a second flight, if the existing hotel stock can be expanded. The report also says the Niue Government needs to establish a simple legal framework for the long-term lease of land and buildings for the tourism industry. It says investment is currently restricted due to confusing property rights ownership. And the report recommends the Niue Government, supported by Wellington, should investigate an income and business tax free environment to attract investment."