Aircalin Launches New Route: Bridging New Caledonia, Fiji, and French Polynesia
7 December 2023
Fourteen Tourism Committees Achieve Accreditation, Paving the Way for Sustainable Tourism in The Islands of Tahiti
10 December 2023
‘Ia ora na from the SPTO Division of Sustainable Tourism!
November has been an eventful month for the Pacific Tourism Organisation (SPTO), and we are thrilled to share the highlights with you, our valued community.
SPTO has been awarded the Commonwealth Secretary General’s Innovation Award 2023 in the category of “Promote Partnerships for Development in the Commonwealth” for its outstanding work on the Pacific Sustainable Tourism Policy Framework. This prestigious recognition was received by our Chief Executive Officer, Christopher Cocker in Nairobi, Kenya on 27 November. We dedicate this Award to our Member Countries through their National Tourism Organisations (NTOs), industry partners, the Council of Regional Organisations in the Pacific, our regional and international collaborators for their unwavering support, which has played a pivotal role in making this achievement possible. This is a win for the Pacific!
In Tonga, the Pacific Tourism Waste Initiative unfolded with a successful plastic repurposing workshop. Over 35 participants from Tonga actively engaged in the event, contributing to the broader effort in promoting sustainable practices and the eradication of single use plastics within the Pacific tourism sector. A workshop was also hosted by SPTO for the Ministry of Tourism and Tonga Tourism Authority on the Pacific Sustainable Tourism Standard.
Turning our focus to this month’s spotlight on Tahiti, let’s delve into the thriving tourism scene in this captivating Polynesian destination.
Learn about the accreditation of 14 Tourism Committees in The Islands of Tahiti, recognized as vital contributors to the region’s tourism development chain. Tahiti Tourisme’s commendable efforts in promoting inclusivity and diversity in its programmes will be highlighted.
Currently, a survey is underway to study the perception of tourism in French Polynesia. This initiative seeks to capture the insights and opinions of the local community, shaping the future of tourism in alignment with their values and expectations.
The Islands of Tahiti stands as a trailblazer in marine conservation with Rahui, the world’s largest marine sanctuary covering 5 million km2. This dedication to preserving marine ecosystems reflects Tahiti’s commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible tourism.
In other news, check out the latest publication by the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) on tourism as a driver for shared prosperity, gaining insights into sustainable practices in the Pacific region and beyond.
Don’t miss updates on upcoming events for the remainder of 2023 and 2024. For any inquiries, please feel free to reach out to us at sustainable@spto.org.
As 2023 draws to a close, the SPTO Division of Sustainable Tourism extends warm wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Thank you for being part of our sustainable tourism journey, and we look forward to more exciting and impactful initiatives in the coming year.
