New Zealand 'must stay clean and green'

Tourism New Zealand has said it is "essential" for the travel industry that the country maintains a 'clean and green' environmental policy.

The tourism association carried out a survey of international visitors to New Zealand and found that tourists' biggest problems with the country's natural environment are litter and a lack of recycling facilities.

George Hickton, chief executive of Tourism New Zealand, said the survey showed that the expectations of tourists are not necessarily difficult to meet.

He also pointed out the importance of New Zealand maintaining a clean environment to live up to its '100% Pure' brand identity.

"This isn't just about climate change or resource management. Our visitors are looking for ways to recycle their waste while they are out enjoying our country. And they notice the small things like litter," Mr Hickton said.

"These are issues we can all tackle and help make a real difference."

Tourism New Zealand staff will be out in force in Wellington and Auckland today (September 5th), picking up litter as part of Keep New Zealand Beautiful Clean-Up Week.

International tourism is New Zealand's most important export industry, contributing nearly ten per cent of the country's gross domestic product.

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