Wednesday, 23 December, 2020 - 10:34
COVID-19 has impacted visitor patterns across conservation areas but all indications point to more New Zealanders getting into their great outdoors this summer than ever before, Department of Conservation (DOC) data shows. DOC’s Director-General, Lou Sanson says many New Zealanders are looking to nature for escape and relaxation during these unprecedented times. As we say goodbye to 2020, DOC is working to ensure everyone can have fantastic and restorative experiences outdoors over the summer and asks that people ensure they are also putting in the effort to prepare well for their trips, visit respectfully and keep themselves and their families safe. Some regions are busier than before COVID-19-notably those within three hours’ drive of major population centres. Some places, such as Northland and Coromandel, are experiencing high visitor growth despite no international visitors.