Editors Note- 

Although it may be a controversial topic, it is important to remember that if done correctly,  ecotourisim can be a powerful conservation vehicle by showing people animals, like marine mammals are more valuable alive than dead.  

Representatives from five Pacific Island nations will tour New Zealand this week as part of a marine mammal watching study.

The eight-day tour of the country includes dolphin and whale watching tours, discussions with operators and iwi and a range of workshops with scientists and tourism consultants.

Department of Conservation (DOC) spokesman Mike Donoghue said New Zealand was "doing its biggest bit yet" to support sustainable marine watching operations in the Pacific.

Representatives from Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, Niue, Tonga and Samoa would receive expert advice with a focus on potential opportunities for their own nation, he said.

"One of the strongest arguments for the conservation of marine mammals in the Pacific region is the potential economic benefits that can accrue from watching operations.

"The 10 participants will be building their own commitment and action plans throughout the tour, based on the issues their countries face, feasibility studies already conducted, discussions with each other and interaction with New Zealand experts and operators," Mr Donoghue said.