Tourism development in the Cook Islands: Deconstructing the impacts and identifying a sustainable framework

Abstract

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Cook Islands experienced significant tourism growth and was optimistic that this would continue. The country then had to cope with the phenomenon of ‘undertourism’, which has been damaging to the economy. The country needs to re-establish itself as a tourism destination, although the prevailing question concerns which direction should the Cook Islands take. The government has previously recognized the importance of sustainability, with several important initiatives in place, notably the marine park (Marae Moana), the establishment of the Mana Tiaki Eco Certification Programme, and the government’s Sustainable Tourism Development Policy Framework. However, as the chapter asserts, it is imperative that, if tourism is to become sustainable in the Cook Islands, the country’s pro-tourism stance would need to be re-addressed. The chapter highlights some of the major impacts of tourism development in the Cook Islands, particularly within the context of tourism growth in the pre-pandemic period. By critically reflecting on the various socio-cultural, human resource and environmental impacts of tourism development, it is clear that the country needs to move in a more sustainable direction.