19 Jan 2016

Pacific countries among most 'ethical' places to visit

9:02 am on 19 January 2016

Four Pacific countries have been named in the top ten most ethical places to visit around the world.

Ever have the feeling that you are not where you want to be?

Ever have the feeling that you are not where you want to be? Photo: RNZ / Johnny Blades

The non-profit group Ethical Traveler has named The Federated States of Micronesia, Samoa, Tonga and Tuvalu in its annual list.

The list is based on a survey which assesses the performance of developing nations in the areas of Social Welfare, Human Rights and Environmental Protection.

It aims to encourage travelers to visit destinations that contribute to a safer and more sustainable world.

Michael Luck, the head of Auckland University Of Technology's Tourism and Events department says the effects of Climate Change in the Pacific may further encourage overseas tourists to visit the region.

"We have experienced over the last few years, something we call 'last chance tourism' or 'Doomsday tourism' or things like that. So that's when they say "Okay, you have to see it now before it's flooded and underwater and it's literally gone"."