ABSTRACT
This chapter utilizes a case study of the Hurunui District, New Zealand and examines the role of tourism development in regional areas. It interrogates the academic literature on tourism and regional development. The local government in the Hurunui District is not only an arbiter and benefactor of tourism development, but is also a significant beneficiary of direct involvement and entrepreneurship in the tourism industry. Neo-Foucauldian conceptualizations of regions are then introduced in order to frame the changing relationship between local government and community stakeholders within a context of power and politics. The Hanmer springs thermal pools and spa (HSTPS) thus provide a substantial revenue stream to the district council and financial contribution to be used toward the funding of other reserves within the district. The role and potential of tourism as a contributor to regional growth and development is well established in the academic literature.
