TIA values its positive relationship with the DOC but recognises the limitations of the current legislative and planning structures for managing conservation lands. With these lands being one third of Aotearoa New Zealand, it is important that the legislative framework under which DOC operates is reviewed and improved so it is equipped to play its essential role as visitor demand changes over time. 

The current framework is outdated and frequently works against the desired conservation, recreation, cultural and visitor outcomes. Tourism can deliver strong conservation gains, but the current system consistently works against this desired alignment. 

Also, there are risks to DOC’s ability to maintain and develop its existing network of tracks, huts and other facilities, let alone to invest in this network as both quality standards and demand levels increase. TIA advocates for DOC being funded to enable it to respond to these growth-related drivers. 

Action 7 of Tourism 2050 is Transform Tourism and Conservation. 

This has two parts. Firstly, to establish how to optimise the current settings for tourism and conservation for the best outcomes, and secondly, to support the modernisation of the complex conservation legislation that DOC works to. In both areas, TIA considers that there are substantial mutual benefits to be gained. 

TIA is participating in Government steps to modernise conservation land management and to explore charging for access to some conservation land to ensure Aotearoa New Zealand has a fit-for-purpose conservation system. TIA is engaged broadly with this work and is particularly interested in the reform of the concession system, and that both conservation and tourism outcomes are improved. TIA’s submission on the DOC consultation can be found here.    

With Government signaling legislation change to take the key changes forward, this is a rare and welcomed opportunity to establish the legislative framework to enable positive tourism and conservation outcomes. 

TIA is also participating in the current review of the Wildlife Act 1953.