New Zealand's Commitment to Environmental Stewardship and Sustainable Tourism

In 2007, the New Zealand government pledged to become the world's first carbon-neutral and sustainable nation, emphasizing the importance of environmental protection. This commitment was embraced by the entire country, especially the tourism industry, which heavily relies on tourism as it accounts for 9% of the total gross domestic product.

One of the key platforms of New Zealand's tourism strategy is environmental protection and sustainability. Sustainability is also a key assessment measure in the Tourism Qualification Authority (Kwame) that evaluates tourism businesses' quality and performance.

Real Journeys, one of New Zealand's largest tourism operators, hosts over 700,000 tourists annually in the environmentally sensitive Fiordland region. The company actively supports conservation causes, invests in technology, uses modern low-emission equipment, engages in recycling, and collaborates with organizations to remove pests from the areas they operate in.

The Department of Conservation (DOC) in New Zealand works closely with tourism operators like Real Journeys to protect and preserve natural resources. With 30% of New Zealand designated as reserves, the relationship between conservation and tourism aims to be symbiotic, ensuring that natural places remain healthy for people to enjoy.

An example of using natural resources to revitalize a failing economy is the case of Whakatane Kokoda. Established in 1987, the initiative aimed to create employment opportunities in a community with high unemployment rates, particularly among Maori. By leveraging cultural relationships and concepts like manaakitanga and kaitiakitanga, the project sought to provide a sustainable future for the local population.

The speaker emphasizes the importance of not only conserving natural resources but also restoring them to their former glory. They believe in the concept of restoration, aiming to bring back the pristine state of natural resources from 50 to 100 years ago. This approach goes beyond preservation and focuses on enhancing the environment to a level unmatched anywhere else in the world.

Dive Tutukaka, located off the northeast coast of New Zealand, operates in the Poor Knights islands, renowned as a top diving spot globally. The company offers a quality and sustainable tourism experience, showcasing a fantastic marine environment with subtropical waters, diverse fish life, sea caves, and rich bird life. Visitors not only enjoy the experience but also gain valuable knowledge about marine reserves and sustainable practices.

New Zealand's geographic isolation and lack of human habitation for an extended period have resulted in a unique natural environment. Examples like Over Island, a bird sanctuary on Stewart Island, highlight the country's rich biodiversity with rare and endangered flora and fauna. Tourists are drawn to New Zealand for its pristine image and commitment to environmental conservation.

New Zealand embraces the Maori concept of kaitiakitanga, meaning to preserve and protect the environment for future generations. The country has implemented world-leading strategies such as cap and trade schemes, emissions reduction plans, afforestation, renewable energy initiatives, and waste management strategies. This commitment reflects a deep sense of environmental stewardship and a dedication to sustainable practices.

The speaker envisions a transformative impact on visitors to New Zealand, aiming to enrich their experience and change their worldview. They aspire to influence visitors positively, fostering a different attitude towards the world. The ultimate goal is to potentially change the world one visitor at a time through meaningful interactions and experiences in New Zealand.