Exploring Charging for Access to Some Public Conservation Land
NZ Airports has submitted into the Department of Conservation’s consultation into Exploring Charging for Access to Some Public Conservation Land.
NZ Airports supports charging for access to high-traffic sites on the DOC Estate under the following conditions:
- The purpose of the charge is transparent and directly linked to enhancing visitor experiences and managing demand.
- Revenue is used for site-specific improvements and maintenance rather than being redistributed for broader conservation funding.
- Charges are structured to ensure clear value is provided to visitors in return.
- Charges must be rationalized with the International Visitor Levy (IVL) over time to avoid an accumulation of fees.
We believe the consideration of access charging should focus on the most heavily visited just sites: initially Milford Sound/Piopiotahi, Tongariro Alpine Crossing, Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park, and Abel Tasman National Park.
We propose a phased approach that includes investment upfront in infrastructure and visitor experience, before phasing in charges and phasing out the IVL.
Managed well, access charging is an opportunity to enhance visitor experiences, manage conservation assets sustainably, and entrench New Zealand’s ability to protect and enjoy some of the most spectacular places on earth.
Read more on our views in our submission at the link below.