This report is an output of a major collaborative research programme funded by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) Endeavour Programme titled “He Karapitipitinga Mariko: Immersive Regenerative Tourism Experiences in Aotearoa”. This research programme advances understanding of the potential of virtual and augmented reality technologies to advance tourism system transitions through the delivery of immersive and regenerative visitor experiences in Aotearoa New Zealand.
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Citation: Higham, J.E.S. & Bian, Y. (2026). Regenerative tourism: Systems, technology and experiences. MBIE Endeavour Programme – He Karapitipitinga Mariko. Griffith University. March 2026. https://jameshigham.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Regenerative-Tourism-Report-March-2026-FINAL-250326.pdf
While offering insights and cases that are unique to Aotearoa New Zealand, the report is intended to also inform regenerative tourism practices internationally.
The report is presented in four sections, each exploring a different aspect of regenerative tourism. It draws on a review of academic literature, an analysis of government and industry reports, and is illustrated with selected case studies from Aotearoa New Zealand that provide grounded and accessible insights into how regenerative tourism is being interpreted and practised by selected vanguard tourism businesses.
