Evaluation of Tourism Infrastructure Fund

The Tourism Infrastructure Fund (TIF) supports local communities facing pressures from tourism growth. Cabinet requested a report on whether the TIF funding mechanism was appropriate or if an alternative approach was necessary to achieve the desired outcomes.

We were asked to complete an evaluation of the operation and effectiveness of TIF. Through a mix of an online survey and individual interviews, we focused on 7 key evaluation questions targeted at the outcomes agreed by Cabinet when TIF was established.

Our Review noted that participants considered the TIF application and assessment process worked well and that TIF worked best for small-scale infrastructure.  Participants advised that TIF was contributing to a higher quality visitor experience, and had been effective at maintaining the social license for tourism at a local level.  Looking ahead, we identified questions related to the policy outcomes and vision for the future of TIF.