Mining national parks could put $20.1b tourism industry at risk

28 August 2009

Opening up the conservation estate to mining interests could put New Zealand’s $20.1 billion tourism industry at risk, the Tourism Industry Association New Zealand (TIA) is warning.

“New Zealand’s natural scenery and landscapes are the main reason international visitors come here.  Our national parks and reserves are also important to domestic tourism and form the basis of thousands of tourism businesses,” TIA Chief Executive Tim Cossar said.

“Taking a long-term view, it may be that tourism is a more valuable and sustainable industry to New Zealand’s economy than mining. This is an issue we’ll be wanting to talk to Government about if this idea proceeds.

“New Zealand is internationally recognised for the leadership it has shown in managing one-third of the country as conservation estate.  Our 100% Pure international brand is based on our intrinsic commitment to our unspoiled landscapes.”

TIA wanted assurance that the Government would take into account the importance of the conservation estate to the tourism industry before making any decisions about mining there, Mr Cossar said.

The Tourism Industry Election Manifesto, released in the run-up to last year’s General Election, highlighted that improving New Zealand’s environmental performance was a priority for the tourism industry. 

“We must protect and enhance our environment, so it can continue to be enjoyed by future generations of New Zealanders and future visitors.  This is not optional – it is a necessity if tourism is going to continue to be one of New Zealand’s biggest export industries,” Mr Cossar said.

While the proposal has just been floated, TIA would want to talk to Prime Minister John Key, who is also Minister of Tourism, if it went any further.

For further information please contact:

Ann-Marie Johnson 
Senior Communications Advisor
Tourism Industry Association (TIA)

Phone: 04 496 5001
Mobile: 027 600 4565
Email: ann-marie.johnson@tianz.org.nz