Tourism concessions in National Parks: neo-liberal governance experiments for a Conservation Economy in New Zealand

Abstract

ABSTRACT This paper analyses the use of concessions for tourism business in protected areas, including National Parks (NPs), in New Zealand, with specific reference to their financial and in-kind contributions to conservation work. A holistic approach is taken, examining the design and implementation of policies affecting concessions, and their interactions with wider governance arrangements for NPs. The case study considers a range of legal and policy questions, informed by 42 non-structured interviews with concessionaires, park staff and other stakeholders. It explores neo-liberal government policies implemented since 2009, as part of a Conservation Economy vision, aiming to stimulate economic growth by opening-up business access to natural heritage and resources in NPs. More and longer contracts have been granted against the promise of conservation, environmental and infrastructural gains from concessionaires. The research found that, so far, there is no evidence of improvements in the latter aspects, and expectations of gains from donations and voluntary business action have remained only symbolic. Powers to impose such contractual responsibilities are unused. Other significant, and related, neo-liberal governance changes have been implemented or under consideration, raising concerns that a tipping point in NPs' governance towards unsustainable tourism development may be on the horizon.