Regenerative tourism futures: a case study of Aotearoa New Zealand

Purpose This case study urges the future of visitor economy to rely on regenerative tourism to make tourism systems resilience in the long run. Design/methodology/approach The paper draws on published research and industry reports to discuss the future visitor economy and its impact on all dimensions of well-being focused on the case of Aotearoa New Zealand. Findings Results show that post-pandemic tourism transformation must protect and promote local identities, and enhance and enrich visitor experiences with a focus on cultural and natural heritage. Originality/value The recovery of tourism must not implement regenerative tourism as a new specific type of tourism but as a holistic understanding of tourism futures that encompasses communities and the environment, and where visitors are committed to preserve and protect our natural and socio-cultural environment.