Claims-making and rhetoric in the contest between conservation and recreation : the case of the Wainui Marine Reserve proposal

Abstract

In this thesis I examine the tension between conservation and recreation which arises from the environmental impacts caused by recreationists, on protected natural areas. The tension is often manifested as conflict between conservationists and recreationists over access to a resource. As a case study I have examined the conflict between conservationists and recreational fishers over the proposed establishment of a marine reserve at Wainui on Banks Peninsula, Canterbury, New Zealand.

Qualitative social research methods were used to interpret the case study. In-depth interviews were conducted with key marine reserve advocates and opponents over a twelve month period. Additional interviews with key people associated with the marine reserve issue, and a wealth of data from the minutes and records of numerous organisations provided a rich source of data.

I used a contextual constructionist theoretical perspective to interpret data. An analysis of the claims-making activity and the rhetoric used by those involved in the conflict over efforts to establish the marine reserve are used to describe the attitudes, beliefs and values of the two opposing groups.

The establishment of a marine reserve in an unwilling local community is similar to the imposition of other types of facility such as airports or rubbish dumps on local communities. Although such facilities are demanded by the wider society, local communities are reluctant to accommodate the perceived negative impacts associated with the facilities giving rise to the "not in my back yard" (NIMBY) syndrome.

I found that marine reserves and recreational fishing are incompatible activities which should be separated spatially. The compromises that may be necessary to accommodate marine reserves within a local area should address the availability of alternative recreational opportunities to minimise conflict.