A University of Otago expert says the decline in the quality of the water in New Zealand rivers and lakes may affect tourism.

Last week tourism lecturer Brent Lovelock told a water symposium a recent survey reveals tourists notice declining water quality which is affecting their experience.

Destination Queenstown CEO Graham Budd disputes this saying, 'there is no evidence at all that water quality in our region is creating any negative impact on visitors or tourism to Queenstown.

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