This document has been developed to provide a framework for the Department of Conservation (DOC) to navigate the changing context for visitor experiences on public conservation lands and waters and realise the benefits for all New Zealanders. In this strategy, the authors outline how DOC’s heritage and visitor system can support DOC’s work to help Papatūānuku thrive.

The three goals of the Strategy are:

1. Protect – New Zealand’s natural, cultural and historic resources are protected and restored to maintain biodiversity, cultural and historic values, ecosystem health, landscapes and natural quiet.
2. Connect – Visitors are enriched and better connected to New Zealand’s natural, cultural and historic heritage.
3. Thrive – Tangata whenua, regions and communities benefit from protecting and connecting visitors with their natural, cultural and historic heritage.