Rt Hon Christopher Luxon, Prime Minister

Hon Nicola Willis, Minister of Finance

Hon Simon Watts, Minister of Climate Change

Hon Matt Doocey, Minister of Tourism & Hospitality

Parliament Buildings

Wellington 6160

Dear Prime Minister and Ministers,

As representatives of the tourism industry, local tourism operators, tourism advocacy groups, climate action and environmental groups, district and regional councillors & councils, as well as concerned residents and cruise ship passengers, we the undersigned are writing to express our deep concern regarding the urgent need for government action on climate change. We ask that you bring emissions from international shipping and aviation into your emissions targets, count them, and appropriately charge for them based on your emissions reduction framework making them part of your emissions reduction plan.

The impacts of climate change are becoming increasingly severe and widespread, posing significant threats to ecosystems, communities, and economies worldwide. From rising sea levels and extreme weather events to disruptions in food and water supplies, the consequences of unchecked climate change are already being felt across the globe.

We are committed to proactively addressing our carbon footprint, including investing in cleaner technologies, improving energy efficiency, and supporting carbon offset initiatives.

However, without government regulation to level the playing field, companies that voluntarily pay for their emissions face a significant competitive disadvantage in the marketplace. The cost of internalising carbon emissions would inevitably be passed on to consumers, resulting in higher prices for cruise vacations. In today's highly competitive industry, where price sensitivity often dictates consumer choices, this could render our businesses uncompetitive and ultimately financially unsustainable.

Therefore, we urge the New Zealand Government to implement robust regulations to limit carbon emissions and create a fair and equitable framework for all businesses.

In closing, we stand ready to work collaboratively with government stakeholders to develop and implement effective climate policies that address our urgent challenges. Together, we can create a sustainable future for our industry, our planet, and all those who depend on them.

Thank you for your attention to this critical issue.