Embedding Māori values in tourism: A blueprint for climate resilience

As the effects of climate change become increasingly evident in Aotearoa New Zealand, vulnerable regions are highlighting the urgent need for the tourism sector to prioritise sustainable practices. Research from Te Whare Wānaka o Aoraki Lincoln University explores how tourism businesses in Westland Tai Poutini National Park are adapting to a changing environment—and how Māori values can guide this transition.

Through interviews with local tourism key informants from around Franz Josef Glacier, Kā Roimata o Hine Hukatere, and Fox Glacier, Te Moeka o Tūawe, Lincoln University researchers Abby Hamilton, Associate Professor Joanna Fountain, Professor Emma Stewart and Associate Professor Stephen Espiner gained an understanding of the impact climate change is having on their businesses.

Lead researcher Abby Hamilton (Ngāi Tahu) brings a unique perspective, having worked in the tourism industry before completing her Master of Applied Science – Parks, Recreation and Tourism from Lincoln.

“I spent a lot of time in Westland Tai Poutini National Park in my younger years as an outdoor guide. The area has a special place in my heart. Over time, I’ve witnessed the growing number of tourists alongside the decline of the glaciers.”

“My overwhelming impression of local tourism operators is that they are deeply committed to adapting to changing weather patterns and recognise that sustainability is key to long-term viability. They’re definitely here for the long haul.”

Abby interviewed key informants, including Māori-led businesses, iwi representatives, local government and operators from the wider tourism sector. This provided a broad view of how the industry is responding to the challenges it is facing.

The most significant risks identified include frequent disruption to roads and infrastructure and the continued retreat of the region’s glaciers. To address these challenges, operators are diversifying tourism activities and encouraging visitors to stay longer and experience more. While the area’s scenic beauty will always attract tourists, diversification will help spread economic benefits and build resilience across the region.

Abby reports that respondents indicated that climate change is already affecting visitor experiences, with access to glaciers increasingly limited due to more damaging weather events, making some tourists hesitant to visit. Even favourable weather presents challenges—helicopter access is now the primary means of reaching the glaciers, but in summer, safe landing spots are harder to find. Many operators also view helicopter use as counterproductive to sustainability goals.

The research shows strong alignment between Māori and non-Māori businesses in recognising the importance of environmental guardianship, however Māori-led tourism businesses (MLTBs) viewed their responsibilities in the face of climate change through a mātauranga Māori (Māori knowledge) lens, incorporating three key values:

• Kaitiakitanga – stewardship of land (whenua), including educating tourists about caring for the environment
• Manaakitanga – hospitality and respect
• Whanaungatanga – relationship building and encouraging greater collaboration.

These values inform sustainable business practices and foster deeper connections to the whenua. Many operators expressed a personal commitment to protecting the environment, which drives their passion for staying in the region.

“With this research conducted post-COVID, the local operators I spoke to have already proven their resilience,” says Abby. “They expressed being open to making changes to protect the environment—to them it’s a no-brainer.”

MLTBs are already taking action, such as participating in Predator Free South Westland and planting native trees on unused farmland.

Abby says that to promote the adoption of more sustainable practices among Māori and non-Māori tourism operators in Westland, Māori values need to be embedded in policymaking at both regional and national levels. The challenge lies in Aotearoa’s short-term political cycle, which hinders long-term, intergenerational change. Government support is essential for supporting a shift to greener business models.

“We need to find a balance between climate adaptation and tourism development,” says Abby. “Māori-led businesses can lead by prioritising kaitiakitanga to preserve the area’s natural and cultural heritage. Through Māori perspectives in policymaking, we can strengthen community engagement, collaboration and resilience in the face of climate change.”

Abby’s research was supported by Resilience to Nature’s Challenges (RNC) National Science Challenge, Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu Kā Pūtea Masters Scholarship (2023) and the L.W. McCaskill Scholarship (2024).

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