Funding national parks - Tongariro case study

Introduction

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing has become one of the world's most frequently visited hiking trails, attracting thousands of visitors each year. Its immense popularity stems from its breathtaking scenery, unique volcanic terrain, and cultural significance. However, the sheer volume of hikers has placed considerable pressure on the trail and surrounding environment, necessitating new strategies to ensure its sustainability. Given these challenges, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing presents an ideal opportunity to pilot innovative funding models aimed at preserving the trail while improving visitor experience and safety.

This article explores the factors that contribute to the crossing’s high visitor numbers, the associated challenges, and why it is an excellent candidate for new funding mechanisms.

The significance of the Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Stretching 20.2 kilometres through the Tongariro National Park, the crossing showcases an unparalleled alpine landscape featuring glacial valleys, ancient lava flows, crater lakes, and diverse vegetation. Visitors are particularly drawn to the Emerald Lakes and Mount Ngauruhoe, famously recognised as Mount Doom from The Lord of the Rings films. This combination of natural beauty and pop culture significance has cemented the crossing’s reputation as a must-do hike.

The fourth busiest hiking trail in the world?

Now the crossing is so popular it has its own website. In the 2018/19 pre-Covid tourism boom, 150,000 people ticked off the Kiwi tourism must. Recent research has highlighted the Tongariro Alpine Crossing as the fourth busiest hiking trail in the world, with 2,585 Instagram posts per kilometre. Between October 2023 and April 2024 alone, approximately 105,000 people traversed the trail. This level of demand underscores its global appeal but also raises the need for alternative routes within the Tongariro Circuit to distribute foot traffic more evenly across the park.

Considerations for managing high visitor numbers

The large number of visitors reflects the crossing’s immense appeal, but it also presents opportunities to improve management strategies:

• Enhancing visitor experience: A steady flow of hikers contributes to a vibrant and social atmosphere, but overcrowding can impact the sense of solitude and connection with nature that many seek.

• Improving infrastructure: More visitors require well-maintained tracks, toilet facilities, and waste disposal systems to uphold cleanliness and hygiene.

• Preserving cultural heritage: The crossing traverses a landscape sacred to local Maori, necessitating careful management to ensure cultural values are respected.

• Sustainable funding for conservation: Increased foot traffic generates both economic opportunities and conservation challenges, requiring thoughtful investment in maintenance and environmental protection efforts.

To manage these considerations effectively, a well-structured funding model is essential to support conservation, infrastructure improvements, and visitor safety while ensuring long-term sustainability.

Why Tongariro Alpine Crossing is the ideal pilot for new funding streams

Given its popularity and the need for effective management, the Tongariro Alpine Crossing is an excellent candidate for piloting alternative funding models. Several reasons justify this approach:

1. High visitor numbers ensure financial viability: The sheer volume of hikers means that even modest fees or contributions could generate significant revenue for trail maintenance and conservation.

2. Existing management framework: Initial measures, such as a booking system and the presence of on-site Manaaki Rangers, have already been introduced. Expanding on these initiatives through new funding mechanisms could enhance their effectiveness.

3. Strong local engagement: Ngāti Hikairo ki Tongariro plays an active role in managing the crossing. A funding model that aligns with their interests can support both environmental and cultural preservation.

4. International recognition: As one of the world’s top-ranked hikes, the crossing provides a high-profile case study for testing and refining sustainable funding strategies that could be replicated elsewhere.

5. Growing global trend towards sustainable tourism: Visitors are increasingly willing to contribute towards conservation efforts if they see tangible benefits. A transparent funding model could foster greater public support for sustainable tourism initiatives.

Potential funding models

Several funding approaches could be considered for the Tongariro Alpine Crossing pilot programme:

1. Visitor levies

A small, per-person fee could be introduced for hikers using the trail. This revenue could be allocated towards track maintenance, conservation efforts, and cultural preservation initiatives. A tiered pricing system could also be considered, where international visitors pay a slightly higher fee than domestic hikers.

2. Permit-based access

Expanding on the existing booking system, a permit requirement could be introduced to regulate daily visitor numbers. Permits could be priced to reflect seasonal demand, encouraging off-peak visitation to reduce congestion during peak periods.

3. Voluntary contributions and partnerships

A donation-based model, supported by local businesses and tourism operators, could provide an additional funding stream. Hikers could be encouraged to contribute voluntarily through online platforms or physical donation stations along the trail.

4. Public-private partnerships

Collaborations with outdoor gear brands, tour operators, and environmental organisations could secure sponsorship funding. These partnerships could also facilitate sustainability initiatives such as waste reduction programmes and reforestation efforts.

5. Conservation memberships

A membership programme offering exclusive benefits—such as guided hikes, cultural insights, or behind-the-scenes conservation updates—could incentivise ongoing financial support from dedicated outdoor enthusiasts.

6. Commercial food services

Introducing carefully managed food services along the route could generate revenue while enhancing the visitor experience. Options might include seasonal food trucks or a small, well-integrated rest stop, providing employment for locals while offering convenient dining choices for hikers. Revenue from these services could be distributed among the local community, conservation efforts, and infrastructure improvements. Given the high foot traffic, such businesses would be financially sustainable while reducing the need for hikers to carry all their own provisions. Any facilities should be designed to blend harmoniously with the natural environment.

Implementation considerations

Before rolling out any new funding model, several key factors must be addressed:

• Transparency and accountability: Clear communication on how funds are utilised is essential to maintaining public trust.

• Equity and accessibility: Any fees should be set at a reasonable level to ensure the crossing remains accessible to a diverse range of visitors.

• Collaboration with stakeholders: Engaging with local iwi, conservation groups, and tourism operators is critical to ensuring a fair and effective funding approach.

• Trial and evaluation: A phased implementation with ongoing monitoring would help refine the model before wider adoption.

Conclusion

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing’s global status, environmental sensitivity, and cultural significance make it an ideal candidate for piloting innovative funding mechanisms. As visitor numbers continue to rise, a sustainable financial model is crucial to protecting this natural treasure while ensuring a safe and enriching experience for all hikers. By implementing a well-structured funding system—whether through visitor levies, permits, partnerships, voluntary contributions, or commercial food services—New Zealand can set a precedent for responsible tourism that balances conservation, cultural heritage, and economic sustainability.