Tourism industry, government and research leaders will examine how Aotearoa New Zealand should tackle a rapidly changing global tourism system at the upcoming Otago Tourism Policy School.
The two-day forum in Queenstown next week will see tourism stakeholders and high-level tourism policymakers discuss how technological innovation, environmental pressures, and rising geopolitical uncertainty are changing the industry.
Associate Professor Susan Houge Mackenzie
School Co-Director Associate Professor Susan Houge Mackenzie says the event will explore what tourism in Aotearoa should look like in 2050, and how policy can help guide this future.
"Emerging technologies will impact every aspect of our current tourism industry - from how we learn about, book, travel, and engage with different destinations and products, to how we manage tourism in destination communities and environments.
"These developments have the potential to both improve tourism experiences and benefits, and to be detrimental to people and places involved in tourism.
"Therefore, this year's theme reflects the urgent need to critically examine the potential role, impacts, and policy options associated with emerging technologies and tourism."
Discussion will centre on the Ministry for Business, Innovation and Employment's proposed Tourism Growth Roadmap and the role of emerging technologies - including immersive digital experiences, smart infrastructure and destination management, artificial intelligence, and data analytics - in enhancing visitor experiences and tourism operation, strengthening environmental stewardship, and supporting community wellbeing.
Sessions will also encourage critical reflection on how technological innovation can align with New Zealand's regenerative tourism aspirations and the values of kaitakitanga (guardianship), manaakitanga (hospitality), and whanaungatanga (connection).
This is the eighth Tourism Policy School, organised by the University of Otago – Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka Department of Tourism.
Associate Professor Houge Mackenzie says the event is now the leading tourism policy forum in Aotearoa New Zealand, attended by leading tourism stakeholders across New Zealand's tourism system as well as global tourism experts.
"It is a key fixture in the Minister for Tourism and Hospitality's calendar and has become a launching point for many new policy initiatives and cutting-edge tourism research projects."
The 2026 Otago Tourism Policy School runs 26-27 March in Queenstown.
