Resilience and regeneration in a marine tourism destination: The case of Akaroa

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in significant calls for a reset in the tourism system, with a focus on regenerating the natural and socio-cultural environments in which tourism occurs. To date, however, there has been limited investigation into the practical implications of a more regenerative form of tourism on the tourism operators and destination communities in specific regions. Based on a series of interviews with key tourism and community stakeholders, this paper provides an exploratory account of some of the enablers and barriers facing marine tourism operators in Akaroa, New Zealand, as they negotiate a more regenerative future for their destination in a post-pandemic environment.