Consultant | Advisor

About David.

Professor David Simmons is a leading figure in tourism, renowned for his expertise and contributions to the industry. As Director of Destination Diagnostics New Zealand, he continues to drive pioneering initiatives that shape the future of sustainable tourism.

A short bio.

David’s academic journey began with his founding of tourism studies in New Zealand. His dedication and contributions to both tourism and higher education earned him the prestigious Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit, recognising his exceptional service to the field.
Throughout his distinguished career, David has held several esteemed roles, demonstrating his commitment to sustainable tourism development. As Head of the Lincoln University Centre of Excellence: Sustainable Tourism, he championed sustainable practices that respect local cultures and protect the environment. Additionally, as Chair of the Lincoln University Research Committee and an adjunct Professor at Griffith University, Australia, he has made significant contributions to advancing tourism research and collaboration.
David’s passion for responsible tourism was further reflected in his role as Director of Research at the Australian Sustainable Tourism Co-operative Research Centre (2008–2010), where he oversaw the creation of an online research portal to promote sustainable practices.
As a skilled researcher, David led several long-term programmes funded by the Foundation for Research, Science, and Technology (FRST), focusing on tourism planning and yield management, cementing his expertise in the field.
His dedication extends globally, contributing to tourism planning in countries such as Cambodia (WWF), Mauritius (UNDP), Niue, Vanuatu (WTO/UNDP), Nepal (MFAT and WWF), India (WWF), Sarawak (East Malaysia), and DPR Korea (UN/WTO). His work has had a lasting impact on tourism development in complex and diverse regions.
Professor Simmons’ advocacy for sustainable tourism has not only influenced academia but also positively impacted communities and environments worldwide. His commitment to responsible tourism and cultural preservation continues to inspire change in the global tourism industry.

Selected Past Projects

Zamrood Karim Memorial Scholarship

Zamrood Karim Memorial Scholarship

Journal of Sustainability and Resilience

Journal of Sustainability and Resilience

New Zealand Tourism Awards Finalists 2024

New Zealand Tourism Awards Finalists 2024

Tricia Hewlett Art

Tricia Hewlett Art

Banks Track Hiking Trail

Banks Track Hiking Trail

Le Bons Bay Environmental Education Trust

Le Bons Bay Environmental Education Trust

Josef Langer Charitable Trust

Josef Langer Charitable Trust

Okains Bay Museum

Okains Bay Museum

Banks Peninsula Early Learning

Banks Peninsula Early Learning

Takamatua Valley Vineyards

Takamatua Valley Vineyards

The Point Pigeon Bay NZ

The Point Pigeon Bay NZ

Te Wepu Pod Retreats

Te Wepu Pod Retreats

La Rochelle Motel

La Rochelle Motel

Akaroa Top 10 Holiday Park

Akaroa Top 10 Holiday Park

Akaroa Mail Run

Akaroa Mail Run

Lavericks Bay Camp and Cabin

Lavericks Bay Camp and Cabin

Akaroa Rocks

Akaroa Rocks

Mana Pasifika Audit Limited

Mana Pasifika Audit Limited

Te Ara Poutama AEC Charitable Trust

Te Ara Poutama AEC Charitable Trust

Johan Ongchangco

Johan Ongchangco

Falelalaga Village

Falelalaga Village

Akaroa Glass and Glazing

Akaroa Glass and Glazing

French Bay House Bed and Breakfast

French Bay House Bed and Breakfast

Akaroa Criterion Motel

Akaroa Criterion Motel

VolcanicKED

VolcanicKED

Banks Peninsula Geopark

Banks Peninsula Geopark

Ecoseaker Dolphin Swimming & Harbour Adventure Cruises

Ecoseaker Dolphin Swimming & Harbour Adventure Cruises

Mr Peacock

Mr Peacock

Cocomutt Dog Ice Cream

Cocomutt Dog Ice Cream

Ramraid Barricade

Ramraid Barricade

Number Eight Enterprises Limited

Number Eight Enterprises Limited

Pipi Journeys Harbour Cruise and Fishing Charter

Pipi Journeys Harbour Cruise and Fishing Charter

AgeWell Christchurch

AgeWell Christchurch

Axebreaker Hardwood

Axebreaker Hardwood

The Seventh Generation Tours

The Seventh Generation Tours

Destination Diagnostics

Destination Diagnostics

Darkroom Live Music and Entertainment Venue

Darkroom Live Music and Entertainment Venue

Top Notch Dog Boarding Kennels

Top Notch Dog Boarding Kennels

Digital Waitaha Charitable Trust

Digital Waitaha Charitable Trust

Nomad Wholefoods

Nomad Wholefoods

Battle Axe Throwing

Battle Axe Throwing

Ethical Trade New Zealand

Ethical Trade New Zealand

Regenerative Tourism App

Regenerative Tourism App

Tourism Data and Research

Tourism Data and Research

Tourism Advisory New Zealand

Tourism Advisory New Zealand

Journal of Sustainability and Resilience

Journal of Sustainability and Resilience

Digital Web Way

Digital Web Way

Regional Business Partners Network

Regional Business Partners Network

Business Mentors

Business Mentors

Project Regenerative Tourism

Project Regenerative Tourism

Latest Blog Posts

5 Aspects of regenerative tourism

5 Aspects of regenerative tourism

What is regenerative tourism?The foundation of tourism - the host communitiesChallenges and clarificationsRegenerative tourism models and measures - framework and indicatorsAuthenticity in tourism experiencesPositive psychology movement in...

read more
Regional Deals Strategic Framework

Regional Deals Strategic Framework

Overview Key ComponentsImplementation ProcessGovernance and AccountabilityExpected Outcomes Overview To remain competitive on the global stage in the 21st century, all regions must maximise their productivity and efficiency by utilising their resources and tools...

read more
New Zealand’s biggest export earners

New Zealand’s biggest export earners

Current trend as of March 2024 Latest IVS DataViews on Tourism: New Zealand Current trend as of March 2024  Recent data released last week showing how important tourism’s contribution is to New Zealanders and the country. Tourism is now the second largest export,...

read more