WELLINGTON: New Zealand is exploring the idea of charging both domestic and international tourists to visit national parks and public lands, home to many of the country’s iconic scenic spots.
Conservation Minister Tama Potaka announced on Friday in Wellington that the government is inviting feedback on several proposals aimed at modernizing the management of these areas. The consultation covers ways to regulate and enhance commercial tourism access and other business activities, along with measures to better protect natural sites.
“We’re also seeking input on a proposal to introduce access fees for certain public conservation areas,” Potaka said, noting that such fees are commonly used worldwide to support sustainable maintenance of popular sites.
