Stewart Island township : a landscape appraisal : [dissertation] presented in partial fulfilment of the Diploma in Landscape Architecture, Lincoln College, University of Canterbury

Abstract

Despite the variety of landscape types in New Zealand, many towns are similar in character. This can largely be attributed to the attitudes of the early settlers who combined the philosophy of freedom for the individual, seen in the variety of ornamental treatments of individual properties, with a hankering for nineteenth century Britain, shown in the lack of respect for the inherent values of the New Zealand landscape. Grid pattern subdivisions were stamped on any type of topography. The resulting rectangular pattern of land ownership is visually enforced by fence lines and straight open roads are dominant. Often there is little sense of place.

A few towns have distinctive characters. Recently this has been recognised by efforts to conserve the character of such towns as Russell, Arrowtown and Akaroa.

The settlement at Stewart Island also has a distinctive character, partly coming from the strong framework of its landscape setting and partly because it has not been closely linked to the rest of New Zealand historically. Russell, Akaroa and Arrowtown generally derive their characters from one historical era and rely on tourism for their present existence. The Stewart Island township, however, has grown slowly and much of its visual character comes from its thriving fishing industry.

The aim of this study is to analyse and define its present character and to consider ways of retaining this character in view of recent trends.

Each landscape type has inherent opportunities and constraints for development. The way in which landuse is matched with those qualities results in the area's landscape character. This is valued in visual and social terms.

Therefore the method to be used will include a survey of the physical setting. The logic and problems faced during the history of the settlement, in response to the setting, will be traced and present landuse and probable future needs outlined. The resultant visual character will be analysed and correlated to physical and social factors to produce landscape guidelines for planning.