Exploring disaster resilience within the hotel sector: A case study of Wellington and Hawke's Bay New Zealand

Abstract

Hotels are an important part of the tourism landscape, providing both a valued service for tourists and a significant contribution to community vitality through generating employment. Disaster resilience is essential for hotels because resilience reduces downtime after a crisis, supports tourist welfare, and provides continuity of employment. The objective of this case study explores hotel disaster resilience with a multiple methods approach, utilizing a capital-based framework. The case study describes interviews from managers and also includes a more novel addition, interviews with employees from hotels in Wellington and Hawke's Bay, New Zealand. Results suggest that many resources are available for hotels, should disaster strike, and uncovers a few gaps to be addressed that will build disaster resilience. Recommendations include the need to develop an all-hazards approach to training and exercises and integrate staff fully in the process. Development of multiple resources prior to a disaster and continued investment afterwards can enhance and build disaster resilience over time.