The overarching philosophy is that while visitors are encouraged to enjoy the country’s pristine environment, they must also “tread lightly” upon it. “We’re very conscious that our environment is precious, and so we want to ensure that visitors come and enjoy it, but also that they understand the steps we take as a country to preserve it,” Upston says, explaining that the approach to sustainability in tourism is multifaceted. In many significant locations, visitors are provided with extensive information about the history of the site and the ongoing efforts to conserve it. For instance, at sites like the glaciers, educational materials explain how these natural wonders have changed over time, fostering a deeper appreciation and understanding of environmental shifts. In certain ecologically sensitive areas, the commitment to preservation extends to restricting visitor numbers at specific times. This managed access ensures that the most special and fragile places retain their natural integrity, allowing for long-term conservation. This blend of education and regulation aims to strike a delicate balance: encouraging visitors to experience the beauty of New Zealand while simultaneously instilling a shared responsibility for its protection. The educational aspect is seen as adding an invaluable layer of appreciation for the environment, enhancing the overall visitor experience beyond mere sightseeing. However, for those visitors who want an experience beyond sightseeing, New Zealand also offers a wide range of culinary and adventurous experiences. For those looking to experience the heart of New Zealand, a crowd favorite destination is Lake Taupō, located in the center of the North Island. This beautiful lake offers a captivating backdrop of snow-capped mountains and provides easy access to a range of activities, including skiing, trout fishing, and jet boating. Visitors can also marvel at the wonder of the Huka Falls and rejuvenate in geothermal mineral bathing spots, offering benefits for both body and soul. As an insider tip for tourists planning a trip, while many visitors use New Zealand’s cities primarily as transit points to reach other towns and regions, Upston recommends spending time exploring the cities themselves. Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch, in particular, 94 BUSINESS VIEW OCEANIA VOLUME 07, ISSUE 07
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