Social and economic impacts of Kahurangi National Park (Science for Conservation 119)

Taylor, N, Gough, Warren, J, McClintock, W

Department of Conservation

1999

Department of Conservation

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DoC Publications: recreation@doc.govt.nz  

Kahurangi National Park was gazetted in 1996. This report considers the social and economic effects of the Park on local economies, tourism and recreational use, management issues and interactions with communities. The research develops longitudinal data on the effects of the Park which can be used in management of effects and for building relationships between the Park and its neighbouring communities. The results will also be of use as a comparative case in the investigation of future park proposals. The key communities around the Park are Collingwood and Takaka (Golden Bay), Tapawera, Murchison and Karamea. Demographic profiles of these using 1996 census data provide a baseline for future analysis. Most had declining populations during the mid to late 1980s as a result of economic restructuring, but since 1991 populations have been relatively stable, although they are ageing and have a loss of young people that is typical of rural communities. Relatively high numbers of self employed and employers in these communities reflect industries based on family farming and small businesses such as tourism.

Since the Park was gazetted there has been an increase in demand for all types of walks, including lesser-known tracks and short walks, from both domestic and international visitors. It is widely considered that use of the Park will continue to grow. Corresponding impacts will need to be managed to protect the visitor experience and limit damage to natural values. There is concern about inadequate funding of facilities by the Department of Conservation (DOC), including the creation of new amenities. Issues for Park management – which are being tackled by the draft management plan for the Park – include helicopter access, particularly around the Wilderness area, mountain bike access, road proposals, hunting policy, water use and eeling.

Tourism businesses have grown in Golden Bay, Karamea and, to a lesser extent, Murchison in the five years since 1993. Kahurangi is now a key feature in the promotion of the top of the South Island. Tourism growth means that the original estimate of 50 direct and 30 indirect jobs created by the Park in the five years following its establishment should prove conservative.

Visitor centres need more information about the Park. The Takaka, Karamea and Murchison communities have plans to improve their information centres in collaboration with DOC. A more professional and coordinated approach was advocated to promote the Park and areas around the Park. To maximise social and economic benefits of the Park there needs to be investment in amenities and information, from private, public and community sources. DOC has shown a willingness to work with communities and attitudes to the Park have become more positive. This proactive approach and close community liaison is supported by the neighbouring communities.

Keywords:

Tourism, Outdoors, Park, National Park, Department of Conservation, Case study, Impact, DoC, bike, Mountain Bike, Cycling, Walks, Walking, Tramping, Tracks, Golden Bays, Heaphy Track, Kahurangi

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June 22, 2012