Evaluating protected area and tourism partnerships: a case study of Tiritiri Matangi Open Sanctuary, New Zealand

Context Public-private partnerships (PPPs) are increasingly recognised as a promising governance approach for protected area management, yet scientific evidence on their effectiveness, design, and sustainability particularly in marine protected area (MPA) tourism contexts remains limited. Aims This study examines the collaborative PPP between the Department of Conservation (DOC) and the Supporters of Tiritiri Matangi (SoTM) at Tiritiri Matangi Open Sanctuary, New Zealand, analysing its development, governance dynamics, success factors, and challenges over more than 30 years. Methods A qualitative single case study design was employed, using semi-structured in-depth interviews with 12 key stakeholders including founders, current and past board members, DOC staff, academic researchers, and volunteers. Data were analysed using Braun and Clarke’s six-phase thematic analysis framework. Key results The partnership has achieved significant successes in community engagement, ecological restoration, tourism development, and scientific research. Key success factors include a compelling shared vision, strong volunteerism, diversified financing, science-led management, and transparent governance. Persistent challenges include power imbalances, governmental bureaucracy, high DOC staff turnover, ambiguous roles and responsibilities, and insufficient engagement of indigenous Māori iwi. Conclusions Effective PPPs in protected areas require adaptive, inclusive, and well-resourced governance structures. A conceptual framework is proposed identifying the primary drivers, mechanisms of change, and sustainability outcomes underpinning the partnership model. Implications The findings offer transferable lessons for MPA governance, recommending co-produced strategic planning, formal institutional memory mechanisms within DOC, and a dedicated, resourced strategy for meaningful iwi engagement in conservation partnerships.