The world's adventure capital's massive gamble


 Queenstown, New Zealand, known globally as an adventure hub, has set an ambitious goal: to be the first tourist destination with a fully carbon-zero visitor economy by 2030. This target envisions travelers arriving on New Zealand's South Island, potentially via electric planes operated by Air New Zealand, and reaching Queenstown on eco-friendly transport, such as an electric gondola or a hydro-powered ferry across the scenic Lake Wakatipu.


In winter, the popular ski resorts would have electric chairlifts to carry skiers and snowboarders to the peaks, minimizing their environmental footprint. Thrill-seekers could speed across Lake Wakatipu or navigate the Shotover River’s rapids in fully electric jet boats, the first of their kind globally. Even the historic TSS Earnslaw, a coal-powered steamship that has been a family favorite for decades, would be powered by hydrogen fuel.


This transformation is part of Queenstown’s bold plan to redefine itself as a leader in ecotourism and set a new standard for sustainable tourism. Rather than the more achievable carbon-neutral target, which allows for carbon offsets like tree planting, Queenstown aims for carbon-zero—meaning no emissions at all.


"Setting a 2030 target creates a real sense of urgency," explains Mat Woods, CEO of Destination Queenstown. "It’s such an ambitious goal that it’s motivated the entire community. Everyone has to contribute to reaching this carbon-zero vision."



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