Tahiti Tourisme has unveiled the next stage of its Sustainable Tourism Plan 2030, reinforcing its commitment to ensuring The Islands of Tahiti remain a model for inclusive and environmentally responsible tourism.
Now in its third phase, the plan outlines more than 110 actions designed to protect natural resources, support local communities and maintain a high-quality visitor experience.
The destination’s new CEO, Vaihere Lissant, presented the pathway at the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) summit, marking her first international engagement in the role. Tahiti was spotlighted through the global “Travel Redefined: Tourism for People and Planet” campaign, which highlights destinations pioneering inclusive and sustainable practices.
Cruise partnerships leading by example
The Islands of Tahiti’s cruise strategy was showcased as a benchmark for sustainability in the region. Partnerships with Windstar Cruises focus on ocean conservation, while Paul Gauguin Cruises (Ponant) contributes medical and healthcare support to remote islands. The mixed cargo and passenger vessel Aranui continues to provide vital connections across the archipelagos, blending authentic local benefits with visitor experiences.
Building on FM27 foundations
Tahiti Tourisme has been rolling out initiatives under the Fari’ira’a Manihini 2027 (FM27) strategy since 2022, including a destination-wide sustainability assessment, a carbon footprint review of the tourism sector and a local population sentiment survey. Collaborative efforts with government and industry partners have led to the creation of a tourist development master plan and the formalisation of a sustainable tourism action plan earlier this year.
Locally, programs such as the Sustainable Tourism Challenge highlight stakeholder contributions to greener practices, while the Hina donation platform allows visitors to support local not-for-profit sustainability projects in areas including socio-economic development, cultural preservation and environmental protection.
Commitment to culture and nature
Lissant said the roadmap ensures The Islands of Tahiti remain a place where slow travel is embraced and culture is celebrated.
“We are committed to ensuring that The Islands of Tahiti remains a place of natural beauty, where slow travel continues to be embraced, and the natural environment and our wonderful culture continue to thrive. The destination’s sustainability roadmap ensures that we take a firm stance to preserve our little piece of paradise.”
Central to the pathway are the pillars of sustainable management, economic and social benefits for the population, and cultural and environmental preservation. These measures cover every aspect of tourism, from hiking trail development to waste management.
Mana at the heart of Tahiti
Known for its crystal lagoons, lush landscapes and rich cultural traditions, The Islands of Tahiti embody the concept of Mana—the life force connecting people, culture and nature. This philosophy underpins Tahiti’s pathway to 2030, aligning the destination’s natural and cultural heritage with its sustainable tourism vision.
