A Slice of Tourism: The Nature, Dimensions and Geographies of International Golf Tourism in New Zealand Research Completed

Title

A Slice of Tourism: The Nature, Dimensions and Geographies of International Golf Tourism in New Zealand

Lead Author

Chris Gazley

Organisation(s)

Victoria University

Publication Year

2010

Publisher

Victoria University

Contacts

Richard Willis

geo-enquiries@vuw.ac.nz 

 

Abstract

Tourism is one of the largest and fastest growing industries in the world and for New Zealand it is the most important industry along with dairy. Of the 2.5 million tourists who visit New Zealand each year, it is estimated that around 65,000 (3%) of visitors will play at least one game of golf while in the country. New Zealand’s profile as a golfing destination has increased in recent years and now boasts a number of the worlds top ranked courses. This, along with the low cost of playing golf in New Zealand has made it an attractive golfing destination. This thesis aims to gain a greater insight into the nature and dimensions of the golf tourism industry in New Zealand and of those who visit. This research was conducted through a range of interviews with 19 stakeholders in the golf tourism industry, as well as a golfer’s questionnaire to which 44 international visitors responded. This research has found that international golf tourism plays an important role for many golf courses throughout New Zealand and the number of visitors is on the rise. These visitors tend to be wealthier and spend more money than the average tourist during their stay and so the benefits of increasing this market go beyond what is spent on the golf course alone. However, New Zealand must first overcome a number of barriers if international golf tourism is to reach its full potential. The key barriers to growth are New Zealand’s geographic isolation, the large distances between New Zealand’s top courses, competition from other golfing destinations and a lack of marketing to increase the awareness of New Zealand as a golfing destination.

Keywords:Sport tourism, Tourist destination, Marketing, Golf tourism

 

 

How to access

Visit/Download now

Mixed-method

National

Thesis

Published

Areas of Focus

Events, Facilities

Population Groups

Adults

Settings (location)

Clubs

Provision (delivery type & infrastructure)

Accomodation and facilities, Commercial, Events, Facilities (outdoor), Organised

Topics

Delivery, Impacts - economic, Management, Planning, Professionals, Tourism

Sport and Recreation Types

Golf

Views

1547

Added

July 23, 2014

Last Modified

July 23, 2014