Governance of Urban Tourist Spaces: Insights from Christchurch's Recovery

Updated at:19/01/2025

Document information

Author	Alberto Amore
instructor	Prof. C. Michael Hall
School	University of Canterbury
Major	Management
Document type	thesis
Year of publication	2017
Place	New Zealand

Language	English
Number of pages	553
Format
Size	11.25 MB

urban tourism governance
post-disaster recovery
Christchurch earthquakes

Summary

I. Introduction to Urban Tourist Space Governance

The governance of urban tourist spaces is a critical area of study, particularly in the context of post-disaster recovery. The governance dynamics in Christchurch, New Zealand, serve as a case study for understanding how urban spaces can be managed effectively after significant disruptions. The research highlights the importance of decision-making mechanisms that are often influenced by various stakeholders, including government entities, private investors, and local communities. The thesis posits that the post-disaster context necessitates a reevaluation of governance strategies to ensure that they are inclusive and equitable. The findings indicate that traditional governance models may not adequately address the complexities introduced by disasters, leading to a need for innovative approaches that prioritize community engagement and sustainable development. As noted in the thesis, "The earthquakes affected the engagement among stakeholders and the mechanisms of decision-making," underscoring the need for a more participatory governance framework.

II.

1.1. The Role of Stakeholders

Stakeholders play a pivotal role in shaping the governance of urban tourist spaces. The research identifies key players, including local government, community organizations, and private sector actors, who influence the regeneration policies in Christchurch. The interactions among these stakeholders often determine the success or failure of recovery initiatives. The thesis reveals that disaster capitalism can emerge in the aftermath of crises, where the interests of a select few overshadow the needs of the broader community. This phenomenon is evident in the post-earthquake governance of the Arts Centre and the Town Hall, where lobbying efforts by prominent stakeholders led to the exclusion of secondary actors from the decision-making process. The research emphasizes the need for a balanced approach that considers the voices of all stakeholders to foster a more equitable recovery.

III. Analysis of Governance Strategies

The analysis of governance strategies in Christchurch reveals significant insights into the neoliberal practices that have emerged in the wake of the earthquakes. The research indicates that the policies and strategies implemented post-disaster often reflect a corporatist approach, prioritizing economic recovery over community needs. The thesis argues that such strategies can lead to tokenistic participation from affected communities, where their input is sought but ultimately disregarded in favor of projects that benefit a narrow group of stakeholders. The findings suggest that the emphasis on tourism in policy discourses has reinforced neoliberal urban development principles, which may not align with the long-term interests of the community. As articulated in the thesis, "Policies and strategies in post-earthquake Christchurch enshrined the rhetoric of early urban regeneration practices," highlighting the need for a critical examination of these governance frameworks.

IV.

2.1. Implications for Future Governance

The implications of the research extend beyond Christchurch, offering valuable lessons for urban tourism governance in other post-disaster contexts. The study advocates for a shift towards more inclusive governance models that integrate critical theory perspectives. By incorporating diverse theories and concepts, the research enriches the understanding of governance dynamics in urban tourist spaces. The findings suggest that future governance frameworks should prioritize community engagement, transparency, and accountability to mitigate the risks associated with disaster capitalism. The thesis concludes that a more equitable approach to governance can enhance the resilience of urban tourist spaces, ensuring that recovery efforts align with the needs and aspirations of local communities. This perspective is crucial for informing policy decisions and fostering sustainable urban development in the face of future challenges.