Chinese tourists’ vulnerability to natural hazard events in New Zealand

Abstract

Tourists are vulnerable to natural hazard events when they travel for many reasons, including an unfamiliarity with a destination’s place-specific hazards, a lack of support systems, and linguistic and cultural barriers. Tourist markets have differing levels of risk awareness and preparedness also, affecting their exposure and sensitivity to natural hazards. This chapter explores the vulnerability of mainland Chinese tourist to natural hazard events in New Zealand, drawing on two studies; one of Chinese visitors to Kaikōura, and the other, their hazard awareness and preparedness when visiting the West Coast (South Island). Results reveal that Chinese visitors differ from other market segments in their awareness of risks, their preparedness for natural hazard events, and their understanding of the locus of responsibility for managing these risks. Practical implications of ways to reduce Chinese tourists’ vulnerability to the natural hazards they may face in New Zealand or other tourist destinations conclude the chapter.