Māori-led tourism and climate change impacts and adaptation: Perspectives fromWestland Tai Poutini National Park, New Zealand

There is growing evidence of the effects climate change will have on Aotearoa New Zealand, and many of these effects are already apparent in the country, with some regions more significantly affected than others. One particularly vulnerable region is Te Tai Poutini on the West Coast of the South Island. This paper outlines how selected Māori-led tourism businesses (MLTBs) and other tourism stakeholders are experiencing and adapting to the effects of climate change in the region. The research is based on qualitative semi-structured key informant interviews with Māori and non-Māori (n=13) involved in these businesses and in the wider tourism sector. Findings reveal that most informants acknowledge the climate change effects the region is experiencing, with consequences for their business and manuhiri [visitors]. The greatest risks identified include disruption to road networks and infrastructure and the continued retreat of the region’s iconic glaciers. MLTBs are considering future adaptation options in light of key Māori values, including Kaitiakitanga [guardianship or stewardship], Manaakitanga [hospitality] and Whangaungatanga [relationships]. By providing an Indigenous cultural lens to the issue of climate change adaptation, this research can inform strategic discussions among tourism operators, managers and regional stakeholders about how adaptation can be planned to take account of Te Ao Māori perspectives.