Session Proponent: Fenjie Qi, PhD Student in Development Studies, Massey University, Aotearoa New Zealand

 Session Contributors Professor Regina Scheyvens, Massey University, Aotearoa New Zealand Associate Professor Anna Carr, University of Otago, Aotearoa New Zealand

This session will explore the concept of regenerative tourism and its potential to drive sustainable community development and enhance social-ecological resilience. Regenerative tourism purportedly goes beyond the traditional sustainable tourism model by actively restoring and regenerating ecosystems and communities, fostering reciprocal relationships between people and nature. The presentations will highlight the roles of communities in tourism development, emphasising local and Indigenous knowledge and practices. Through case studies and empirical examples, this session aims to drive a comprehensive discussion on how tourism can serve as a transformative tool to regenerate both the natural environment and human society. Objectives: To define and contextualise regenerative tourism and explore the intersection of regenerative tourism, socio-economic opportunities, local communities and empowerment, environmental restoration and conservation. To highlight the contributions of Indigenous peoples to regenerative development and knowledge co-creation. To present real-world examples and case studies demonstrating regenerative tourism examples and practices. To foster dialogue and collaboration among academics, practitioners, policymakers, and community leaders on building regenerative community development.  Academics and researchers in development studies, environmental studies, community work and tourism. – Professionals in regional development, or the tourism and recreation industry. – Community leaders and local government officials. – Indigenous community representatives. – Policy makers and non-governmental organisations focused on sustainable development and conservation.