Ecotourism visitor experiences in Aotearoa/New Zealand: Challenging the environmental values of visitors in pursuit of pro-environmental behaviour Research Completed
Title
Ecotourism visitor experiences in Aotearoa/New Zealand: Challenging the environmental values of visitors in pursuit of pro-environmental behaviour
Lead Author
Higham, J. & Carr, A.M.
Organisation(s)
Journal of Sustainable Tourism
Publication Year
2002
Publisher
Journal of Sustainable Tourism
Contacts
ISBN/ISSN 0966-9582
Information about this paper is available on the University of Otago Research Archive.
Abstract
This paper reports on a research project that examined ecotourism visitor experiences in Aotearoa/New Zealand and whether or not those experiences challenged visitors to consider environmental issues. 12 study sites in 3 nationwide geographical clusters were drawn from a comprehensive database of 479 eco/nature tourism operations based on each operation fulfilling 14 selection criteria. The operations offer maximum variation in the ecotourism experiences that they provide. The qualitative research methods implemented at these sites are described. Observational and interview data were employed to critically assess the visitor experiences reported at the study sites. Five important aspects of the visitor experience emerged from data analysis. These were considered to be effective in drawing visitor attention to environmental issues of relevance. The results indicate that ecotourism visitor experiences may be an effective medium via which environmental values may be influenced.
Keywords:
Natural resources, Tourism, Ecotourism, Impact, Study
How to access
In: Journal of Sustainable Tourism 10(4): pp 277-294
Areas of Focus
Population Groups
Settings (location)
Provision (delivery type & infrastructure)
Topics
Views
1046
Added
July 12, 2012