Long-term Department of Conservation concessions have been granted today (12 Feb) to three iconic southern tourism locations by the Minister of Conservation Tama Potaka.

The concessions include a 38-year concession to NZSki for The Remarkables Ski Area, a 30-year guided walking concession to Tourism Milford Limited (Ultimate Hikes) on the Milford Track and a 25-year concession to RealNZ for the Te Ana-au Caves.

Potaka said the long-term tourism concessions would support jobs, strengthen regional economies, and keep visitor access open at key South Island destinations.

Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston said the decision would provide important confidence for the tourism sector and the regional economies that depend on it.

MP for Southland Joseph Mooney said he was delighted at the announcement which was great news for Southland and Otago and would strengthen both provinces' economies and keep visitor access open at key South Island destinations.

“I have been strongly advocating for concessions in our region to be processed in order to bring certainty and confidence to these areas which attract so many and mean so much to the South."

“These attractions are incredibly well-managed, and it is a massive confidence boost for the South to know their future is certain."

“With a secure future these operators can now continue hiring, training and investing in these world-class visitor attractions."

“The flow-on effect of this decision is vast, with supporting industries such as transport, accommodation, hospitality and construction all part of the community of businesses connected to these attractions."

“I will continue working with local tourism operators to support further confidence in our world class southern regions,” Mooney said.