Cheaper Kiwi Dollar Beckons Tourists to Middle Earth

The New Zealand dollar’s plunge to a six-year low may lure more tourists to the South Pacific nation, helping soften the blow of slumping dairy incomes.

As local consumers and firms brace for higher import prices and weaker farmer spending, tourist operators are welcoming the reduced cost to visitors of everything from backpacker accommodation to luxury lodges, bungy jumps and Lord of the Rings movie-set tours. Spending by overseas visitors surged 21 percent in the 12 months ended March 31.