Move to introduce park fees welcomed as ‘a positive’ for Larapinta Trail by tourism operators
BUSINESS owners around the Larapinta Trail are welcoming the move to introduce park entry fees saying it will help with essential trail maintenance
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BUSINESS owners around the Larapinta Trail have remained positive about the future introduction of park entry fees for interstate and international visitors because it will help with essential trail maintenance.
It comes after the NT government confirmed it would raise camping costs for visitors at parks from July and introduce fees for multi-day walking trails, such as the Larapinta Trail, from July.
A new online booking system will also be introduced.
World Expeditions chief executive Sue Badyari said the company would be supportive of a permit system for the Larapinta Trail.
The company runs three guided tours a week from April to September and has permanent campsites along the trail, which have been there for 12 years.
“I think when trails do well with popularity … to remain sustainable the trails will need a system going forth,” Ms Badyari said.
“The Larapinta Trail has been established for such a time that it is now becoming one of Australia’s premier walks and that is getting out to the international market, so we would welcome a permit system to see the impacts on the tracks are managed really well.
Standley Chasm general manager Nova Pomare said she thought most tourists might not mind paying fees if they could see where the money is going.
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“It happens all over Australia anyway with campsites and walking trails,” Ms Pomare said.
“People are happy to pay (us) most of the time as they can see how the path is being maintained.
“This school holidays has probably been busier than last years (pre COVID-19).
“I think at first it will surprise people but then for us when they get here they won’t be surprised they have to pay a fee. We’ve dealt with it for years.”
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