Sustainable use: Continuing the conversation: Report presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Resource Management

Abstract

In a country where legislative, political, cultural and economic constructs largely dissect the landscape into 'workings lands' - subject to productive use - and 'conservation lands' - subject to protection in perpetuity - the management of flora & fauna (or biodiversity) presents a challenge. This project argues that, to manage flora & fauna effectively, the values held on both sides of the fence can, and must be, integrated into a more holistic framework that embraces the contextual and dynamic nature of ecological, socio-cultural and economic systems. This requires a shift in methodology, a will to open conversation and a concerted effort to learn. Sustainable Use - Continuing the Conversation investigates sustainable use as a management philosophy for flora & fauna in Aotearoa/New Zealand. The research methodology borrows from systems analysis theory and draws in perspectives from historical and contemporary accounts of flora and fauna management, experts in the administrating agencies and those actively involved in projects on the ground.