Taiao protection boosting Waitomo tourism value

Waitomo Caves - Getty Images

Waitomo tourism operators including the Māori-owned Waitomo Caves are highlighting the importance of environmental initiatives like riparian planting and pest management to the sector.

Hamilton & Waikato Tourism chief executive Nicola Greenwell says the Tiaki in Waitomo campaign will shine a light on the ability of tourism to make a meaningful and positive contribution to the environment, community wellbeing and cultural storytelling, as well as the economy.

She says the work undertaken in Waitomo over many years has led to the return of birdlife, cleaner waterways, healthier caves and more abundant glowworms.

Tiaki means to care for people and place and the project ties in with the national tourism industry’s Tiaki Promise.

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