Film-Induced Tourism in the High Country: Recreation and Tourism Contest

Abstract

Political, economic, and social changes have increased the importance of tourism in diversifying and sustaining rural areas. This article examines the impact of film-induced tourism on recreational use of the South Island High Country, New Zealand. Changes to the High Country's economic and administrative environment, coupled with image presented and reinforced in the filmed media (prominently in The Lord of the Rings and The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe), has amplified landholders' opportunity to engage in tourism. However, the different (and to some degree incompatible) activity and user profiles of traditional recreationists and new tourists has implications for the High Country.