'Clean and Green' Essential to Tourism

Date: 05 September 2008

New Zealand needs to lift its game when it comes to simple environmental issues such as litter and recycling.

Research released today by Tourism New Zealand shows that, according to international visitors, the two biggest problems with New Zealand’s natural environment are litter and lack of recycling facilities.

Tourism New Zealand Chief Executive George Hickton says tourism is New Zealand’s most important export earner, contributing 9.2 per cent of GDP, but the continued success of the industry relies on New Zealand maintaining its ‘clean and green’ image.

He says the results of Tourism New Zealand’s 2007/08 Visitor Experience Monitor show that meeting visitor expectations can be simple and isn’t just about the big issues.

"We know that our international visitors are becoming more environmentally aware and that the ‘100% Pure’ brand means they come here with a set of expectations about the way we are managing our environment.

"But this isn’t just about climate change or resource management. Our visitors are looking for ways to recycle their waste while they are out enjoying our country. And they notice the small things like litter.

"These are issues we can all tackle and help make a real difference."

As a sponsor of Keep New Zealand Beautiful Clean Up Week, Tourism New Zealand is sending a message to the tourism industry and New Zealand public that we need to work together to keep New Zealand ‘100% Pure’.

Tourism New Zealand staff will be out picking up litter at Scorching Bay in Wellington and Victoria Park in Auckland on Friday 5 September between 11.30 and 1.30 pm to mark the first day of Clean Up Week.

Visit www.knzb.org.nz for more information on Clean Up Week and how to participate.

Click here to view the 2007/08 Visitor Experience Monitor research.

For further information contact:
Cas Carter, GM Corporate Communications, Tourism New Zealand
Mob 021 915 410

Source: Tourism New Zealand Media Release