17 May 2001

Media Statement

"New Zealand Tourism Strategy 2010" is a visionary document that has resulted from a unique partnership approach, and it signals a clear way forward for sustainable tourism development, the Minister of Tourism Mark Burton said.

"The tourism sector as a whole is booming. But we can't leave the future to chance.

"The best time to look at how you can do thing's even better, is when times are good. That is why I undertook last year to work in partnership with the tourism sector to build on the work already begun by the Tourism Industry Association, on a 10 year plan for sustainable tourism development.

"Doing nothing was not an option," Mark Burton said. "We must build and support this dynamic industry in a planned, co-ordinated and focused way.

"What we have now is a document produced by a Strategy Group whose members are highly skilled and experienced and reflect the wider sector interests. They have given us a broad direction based on a set of principles and a comprehensive list of recommendations.

"All the partners to the development of the Strategy now have to look at how best to move forward.

"As Minister of Tourism I am committed to working quickly to address those recommendations which suggest Government action. I have briefed my Cabinet colleagues, and we have tasked officials from the Office of Tourism and Sport to lead a cross-government approach and to report back by mid-July on options and priorities.

"I am confident the other sectors will demonstrate the same degree of commitment to making progress.

"Together with the chair of the Strategy Group, Evan Davies, I have accepted the challenge and responsibility for co-ordinating the implementation phase.

"This is a win-win situation if we get it right - with enormous benefits in terms of economic and regional development, while protecting our natural and cultural environment," Mark Burton said.