New
Zealand’s government has invested more than £300,000 in
a nationwide project to help reduce the environmental impact of tourism.
The Sustainable Tourism Advisers in Regions (STAR) Project will aid
in the funding of advisors who will work alongside local tourism operators
to help improve their ecological sustainability. The scheme is a direct
outcome of New Zealand’s Tourism Strategy 2015 which aims to
protect and enhance the country’s environment.
Each of the nine regions chosen, which include Auckland, Marlborough,
North Canterbury, Queenstown and Wellington, will receive funding
over a three-year period as well as funds from Regional Tourism Organisations
(RTOs).
Local operators will also be required to make financial contributions
towards the service.
Steve Henry, Director of the Centre for Sustainable Practice, explained:
“The advisor will work with the tourism operators through individual
assistance and a range of events to develop peoples understanding
of sustainable practice.”
Queenstown, a popular tourist destination on the South Island has
already acquired its Sustainable Tourism Advisor thanks to joint funding
from the government, Otago Polytechnic, Queenstown Lakes District
Council and Destination Queenstown.
David Kennedy, CEO of Destination Queenstown, said: “Queenstown
as a premier four season destination has much to gain from alignment
to more sustainable practice.”
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