Tourism New Zealand has welcomed today's Government announcement
that it will introduce a compulsory registration system for the
adventure tourism sector.
Minister of Labour Kate Wilkinson today announced the scheme
following an in-depth review of risk management and safety in the
sector.
The Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism John Key called for
the review after a number of tourist deaths arising from accidents
and incidents in the adventure tourism sector.
Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive Kevin Bowler said the review
had found that overall most in the sector were managing risk well,
but that improvements could be made.
"This review has found that most in the adventure tourism sector
are managing risk well, but we need to ensure that any gaps in
safety systems are identified and that New Zealand's reputation for
outdoor activity is protected. The recommendations from this review
will do that."
Mr Bowler said the tourism sector had supported the review
process and was committed to ensuring that visitors enjoyed New
Zealand safely.
He added that he was pleased to see that progress had already
been made and that the tourism industry had already started to
act.
Maritime Safety has already done a significant amount of work
with the riverboarding sector and Whitewater Boarding Safety
Guidelines have been in place since February last year.
Proposed changes to the regulation of jet boating are currently out
for consultation.
"New Zealand welcomes over two million international visitors
annually and in one year the report found that around 850,000 take
part in some kind of adventure activity; this is a big part of the
New Zealand experience and these changes to safety procedures will
support New Zealand's reputation as leader in this field," Mr
Bowler said.
ENDS
For more information please contact Sue Allen 029 917
5466