Reshaping natural hazard risk communications (with Chinese) international tourists in New Zealand

Abstract

Recent natural hazard events in New Zealand have significantly impacted the tourism system, causing loss of life, injury and disruption, such as the 2020 Whakaari/White island eruption and the 2016 Kaikōura earthquake (Mw 7.8). These events highlight the impact that natural hazards can have on tourist experiences in New Zealand, ranging from mild inconvenience to loss of life. Previous studies have shown that risk communication can increase tourists’ natural hazard preparedness, which can reduce their vulnerability to unanticipated events. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, the Chinese market was New Zealand’s second largest, therefore understanding their risk perceptions and awareness of natural hazards, as well as their preparedness behaviour before and during their travel to New Zealand is a critical part of any future risk communication strategy. Drawing on a case study of Glacier Country, on the West Coast of New Zealand’s South Island, this study sought to explore Chinese visitor hazard awareness, alongside perspectives of relevant tourism stakeholders. To this end, semi-structured interviews were conducted with tourism stakeholders and governmental representatives with involvement with the Chinese market. Data from interviews was supported by a small-scale survey of Chinese tourists who had previously visited New Zealand. Results showed Chinese tourists have limited knowledge about local natural hazards while they perceive themselves as having sufficient hazard awareness and preparedness. This might be explained in part by the cultural background of Chinese visitors, but interviews reveal that there are also communication gaps within the tourism sector, and between the tourism sector and the emergency sector, compromising natural hazard communication effectiveness. These insights have led to the suggestion of a number of possible solutions to enhance risk communication and reduce Chinese tourist vulnerability during their visits to New Zealand.