One year on from the introduction of New Zealand's Active Investor Plus (AIP) visa settings, the programme has become one of the country's most closely watched economic and immigration initiatives. Strong application numbers, new investment flows and increasing interest have placed the AIP visa firmly in the spotlight internationally as a pathway to residence.

To better understand how the programme is performing in practice, MinterEllisonRuddWatts spoke with visa applicants and holders, fund managers, financial advisers, property experts, and other participants actively involved in the AIP ecosystem. Their perspectives provide a valuable snapshot of what is working well, where challenges are emerging and how the programme can continue to evolve.

Key findings

Our research found broad optimism about the future of the programme and New Zealand's position as a destination for globally mobile investors. Participants consistently highlighted:

• New Zealand's strong international appeal, driven by political stability, personal safety, institutional trust, and quality of life.
• The success of the revised AIP settings in attracting highly experienced, globally connected and commercially sophisticated investors.
• Positive feedback on the programme's streamlined structure, flexibility, and efficient application process.
• Genuine investment and market activity emerging across the ecosystem.

The report identifies areas requiring ongoing attention, including:

• Tax settings and their impact on long-term relocation decisions.
• Liquidity and investment timeframe mismatches within some investment structures.
• Governance, investor education, and ecosystem maturity.
• Long-term policy stability and the need for coordination within government and across industry participants.

The opportunity extends beyond capital

A recurring theme throughout the research was that the programme's long-term value lies not only in attracting investment capital, but also in the expertise, global networks, mentorship opportunities, and international connections investors bring to New Zealand. Many participants believe the programme's ultimate success will be measured by its ability to foster enduring relationships and deeper engagement with New Zealand's economy, businesses, and communities.

Download the report to discover:

• Why New Zealand continues to stand out internationally.
• What investors, fund managers and advisers are saying about the revised AIP settings.
• The key barriers and opportunities influencing long-term success.
• Practical recommendations for strengthening New Zealand's investor ecosystem.

Download the report

For advice on New Zealand’s Active Investor Plus visa, tax, private wealth, property acquisition, or investment structuring, please contact our specialist team. Download our AIP credentials here.