The project is being carried out by Venture Southland with support from the Clutha District Council and Tourism Catlins.
The tourism strategy review will involve a survey of visitors to the Catlins as well as tourists coming to the South but not opting to visit the area, and compare the results with those from a survey carried out in 2003.
Catlins Tourism project co-ordinator Kim Dodds said the Catlins area was continuing to gain in popularity among visitors, which could put pressure on infrastructure and the environment but also presented opportunities for the community.
"I think it will be interesting to see what the difference is between surveys, particularly on the knowledge of the Catlins area. I think it will show an improved awareness of the Catlins," Mrs Dodds said.
The first strategy was developed in 2003 by the University of Otago, after local residents of Catlins communities lobbied for the development of a framework to manage tourism growth while maintaining and protecting the community, wildlife and environment.
One of the first community-driven strategies of its kind, it concentrated on undertaking key research projects targeting all those involved with the community and tourism.
The main outcome of the initiative was the formation of Tourism Catlins in 2004, a community charitable trust that aims to help with the implementation of the strategy.
Mrs Dodds has been employed by Tourism Catlins part-time as projects co-ordinator for the past six years.
A survey form will also be distributed to residents of the Catlins area to provide feedback to help with planning and projects.
Visitors to Te Anau and Dunedin had already been surveyed.
