The Department of Tourism is looking to expand tourism development in Tafea beyond the established Tanna and Mystery Island markets, following a mission to Aneityum and Futuna.
From a press release it sates that the mission was carried out from 30 August to 6 September by Tafea Tourism Office Manager Jimmy Tom Noale, who assessed tourism products, consulted communities and operators, and raised awareness of sustainable tourism investment.
Aneityum Looks Beyond Mystery Island
On Aneityum, the Department met with the executives of Aneityum Tourism Limited and the Aneityum Tourism Association at Anelghuat, and visited Port Patrick, Anelghuat Station, Umej and tourism operators on Mystery Island.
While Mystery Island remains a well-known cruise destination, the mission focused on opportunities on mainland Aneityum for visitors arriving through other means.
Potential products include kastom and cultural experiences, botanical and conservation tourism, hiking, agritourism and community-run homestays, guesthouses and bungalows.
Tourism operators were encouraged to diversify beyond cruise days and were provided guidance on permits and standards, as well as product packaging, pricing and marketing.
Futuna Takes First Step Towards Tourism
On Futuna, Noale met with the Council of Chiefs, the Community Liaison Officer and the Honorable Councilor at Mission Bay.
He also presented information on tourism investment and the Department’s code of conduct at Ishia School in Herald Bay.
A site visit around the island identified opportunities for small-scale cultural, community-based and nature tourism, guided experiences and accommodation.
The Department will now seek formal endorsement from the Council of Chiefs for tourism development on Futuna, before developing a priority product list and including the island in provincial tourism planning.
Communities to Remain at the Centre
Noale says both islands have strong potential because of their custom, natural environment and communities willing to share their experiences with visitors.
He says the Department’s role is to help operators turn these assets into tourism products that can be packaged, priced and marketed while ensuring communities remain in control of how tourism develops.
Noale says beginning discussions with the chiefs was particularly important for Futuna.
Challenges to Tourism Growth
The Department says tourism growth on both islands is currently constrained by limited domestic air and sea connectivity, infrastructure gaps, skills shortages, limited access to finance and low marketing exposure.
In response, the Department plans to introduce a priority product development programme, targeted training and improved visitor information.
It will also coordinate with government agencies and development partners on infrastructure and investment opportunities.
Department Plans Regular Outer-Island Support
Director of Tourism Paul Pio says Tafea’s tourism potential extends beyond Tanna and cruise visits to Mystery Island.
He says Aneityum and Futuna reflect the type of authentic, community-owned tourism destinations promoted under the Vanuatu Sustainable Tourism Policy.
The Department says the mission is the first step in what will become a regular programme of visits, training and technical support to strengthen tourism development in the outer islands.
Photo credits: Department of Tourism
