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New Zealand’s National Parks: Should Visitor Fees Fund Conservation?

The New Zealand government is exploring new measures to balance tourism with conservation efforts by charging visitor fees at specific high-traffic national parks and simplifying concessions for private businesses to operate within protected areas. The Department of Conservation (DOC) aims to boost revenue, streamline concession approvals, invest in "high-value conservation outcomes," and strengthen iwi partnerships, helping to protect natural spaces while supporting regional economies.


Conservation Minister Tama Potaka emphasized that fees would apply selectively in busy locations rather than across all parks, saying, “We are asking for people’s views and comments on these ideas. Nothing is set in stone.” Currently, DOC can only charge for facilities like huts or parking, but proposed changes could allow entry fees at popular sites such as Franz Josef Glacier, Punakaiki Pancake Rocks, and Aoraki Mount Cook’s White Horse Hill.


DOC’s budget relies primarily on government funding, yet rising conservation costs have led to increased private partnerships, such as the recent collaboration with the New Zealand Nature Fund. With public consultation open until February 2025, DOC is considering three options: charge all visitors the same, offer discounted access to New Zealanders, or allow locals free access while charging only international visitors.


What’s your view—should all visitors pay, or should locals access these areas for free?


To read the full article by Kate Green click here

To read more on the proposal click here

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