Wellington (TAN): New Zealand, which depends overwhelmingly on tourism for its economy, wants to ask visitors to be mindful of the country’s environment and culture.
“It’s no secret that some regions are feeling pressure and need support to ensure that tourism enriches their environment, community and the people who live there. On the flip side, we also have regions that are keen to attract more international visitors,” a World Economic Forum report quoted Tourism New Zealand’s chief executive Stephen England-Hall as saying.
The challenge now is to ensure “New Zealanders continue to offer positive tourism experiences for visitors and local communities well into the future”, he added.
To this end, New Zealand has launched the Tiaki Promise, which asks visitors to act in a considerate and respectful manner. It says: “When travelling in New Zealand, I will care for land, sea and nature, treading lightly and leaving no trace. Travel safely, showing care and consideration for all. Respect culture, travelling with an open heart and mind.”
The Maori word “tiaki” means to care for people and place.
Tourism is the antipodean archipelago’s biggest export earner. Between March 2017 and March 2018, international visitors generated NZD16.2 billion or around USD11 billion.
A national survey called the Mood of the Nation, released in December last year, reveals that while Kiwis agree that tourism is good for them and the country, they also worry about tourism impact in some other crucial areas.
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