Sport NZ Sport and Recreation Knowledge Library: New Zealand-based sport and recreation research

Southland recreation demand survey Research Completed

Title

Southland recreation demand survey

Lead Author

Peter Glen Research

Organisation(s)

Department of Conservation

Publication Year

2010

Publisher

Peter Glen Research

Contacts

Michael Harbrow

Science & Technical Group, Department of Conservation, Wellington

Email: mharbrow@doc.govt.nz

Abstract

In 2009 the Department of Conservation introduced the Destination Management Framework (DMF). This signalled a new approach to visitor management with a particular focus on increasing participation in outdoor recreation. A key principle of the DMF is that recreation opportunity provision is driven by demand and this requires a better understanding of what people want and what makes destinations appealing.Accordingly, the Southland Conservancy commissioned Peter Glen Research to undertake a survey to assess community demand for recreation opportunities in the region.

The survey revealed that a high percentage of Southland residents (88%) had visited a DOC park or reserve in the region in the previous twelve months. Additionally, 77% had visited parks/reserves managed by local councils and 22% had visited parks/reserves managed by DOC outside of Southland. These figures suggest that the Southland population is particularly active in the outdoors.

The research identified a range of activities undertaken in parks. Whilst walks up to three hours were mentioned by approximately one-third of park visitors, sightseeing, fishing, family outings, overnight tramps, hunting and boating also featured strongly.

The survey indicated that only 12% of residents were non-users of DOC parks and reserves in the region. Non-users cited a range of reasons why they had not visited, however, lack of time, health problems, age, family and life stage factors appeared to be the most significant barriers for these people.

There was a high degree of satisfaction with the facilities and services provided by DOC in the Southland region. 97% of park users rated their last park experience positively and 74% indicated that it warranted a score of ‘8 or more’ on the ten-point satisfaction scale.

Respondents identified several priorities for development including: toilets, access roads, family orientated facilities, areas for dogs, track maintenance/development, attention to rubbish disposal, shelter and accessible walks.

Keywords: participation, recreation demand, satisfaction, facility development, Southland, Invercargill, Department of Conservation

How to access

For information on how to access the full text of this article, go to http://www.doc.govt.nz/Documents/science-and-technical/southland-recreation-demand-survey.pdf or contact your local or organisational library for assistance

Areas of Focus

Population Groups

Settings (location)

Provision (delivery type & infrastructure)

Facilities (outdoor), National Parks, Parks - remote/backcountry