New proposals which could result in a massive hike in charges for all travellers entering New Zealand are extremely troubling and should not go ahead, Tourism Industry Aotearoa says. The levy used to fund customs and biosecurity services is under review by the Customs Service and the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI). Currently, the border processing levy is $20.11 for every air passenger and $21.96 for cruise passengers. Customs and MPI are proposing a range of options from no change through to an increase that would see the levy jump to $160.76 per passenger, and $70.23 for cruise passengers from December 1. (full story)