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https://hdl.handle.net/10182/337

The electronic full-text versions of theses and dissertations in this collection are not publically viewable. In most cases the full-text is viewable only by current Lincoln University staff and students. See the item record of each thesis or dissertation for a description of access rights.

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Growth and nodulation of autumn sown chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) as affected by additional nitrogen: A dissertation submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirement for the degree of Bachelor of Horticultural Science (Honours) at Lincoln University
(Lincoln University, 1992) Stokes, Jo-Anne Ruth
Two glasshouse experiments and a field experiment were carried out to examine the growth and nodulation response of inoculated Kabuli and Desi chickpea to application of nitrogen. In the glasshouse experiments, a range of nitrogen levels were applied (0, 12.5, 25, 37.5, 50 and 100 mol N m⁻³). Leaf area and shoot dry matter production for both chickpea types, and nodule dry weight for Kabuli chickpea were measured. In the field experiment, autumn sown Kabuli and Desi chickpea shoot and nodule dry matter were measured to determine the response of chickpea to application of 100 kg N ha⁻¹. Application of nitrogen increased leaf area and shoot dry weight in the first glasshouse experiment by 36 and 42% respectively but had little effect in the second. Nodule dry weight of Kabuli chickpea decreased with increased application of nitrogen in both experiments by 42 % and 45 % respectively. In the field, application of nitrogen had little effect on shoot or nodule dry weight. It was concluded that autumn sown chickpea are able to survive a Canterbury winter, but survival of Rhizobium bacterium may be poor. Application of nitrogen may increase shoot growth in the longer term but has little effect initially. Nodule dry weight decreases with increased applied nitrogen. If nitrogen fertilizer is to be applied, spring and summer application is recommended.
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A study of factors influencing the solids not fat of milk with particular reference to the effect of feeds having oestrogenic activity : A thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Agricultural Science
(Lincoln College, University of Canterbury, 1952) Vial, Vivian. Edward
The value of milk in the National dietary cannot be too strongly emphasized; no single food is nutritionally complete but milk must be regarded as a product which most nearly attains the ideal. There is a growing public awareness of the role of milk as a "protective'• foodstuff and as a supplement to the normal carbohydrate-rich diet of the average New Zealand household. In the past, milk quality has been synonomous with keeping quality and the bacteriological status of the milk passed on to the consumer, but more recently- through the medium of the press, Government departments and local bodies, the concept of nutritive status has started to assume the importance it warrants; even so, to the public in general, the value of the various milk components is only vaguely appreciated; New Zealand's liquid milk supply has been the Cinderella of the Dairy Industry for too many years since statistically it accounts for only 9% of the Dominion's total butterfat production.
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Some effects of vesicular-arbuscular mycorrhizas on the nitrogen nutrition of perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne L.): A dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Bachelor of Agricultural Science (Honours) in the University of Canterbury
(Lincoln College, University of Canterbury, 1978) Buwalda, J. G.
Vesicular-arbuscular {VA) mycorrhizas are widespread in nature, occurring on more plant species than any other form of mycorrhiza {Gerdeman, 1975). Their importance in plant nutrition, particularly phosphorus nutrition, is now well established (Mossa, 1973a), and VA mycorrhizas may significantly influence the growth and composition of natural communities in soils of low available phosphorus. Vesicular-arbuscu:lar mycorrhizas have also been found to significantly influence the growth of agricultural crop (Khan, 1975b) and pasture (Crush, 1976) plants~ Different species of mycorrhizal fungi enhance the growth and phosphorus nutrition of the hos·t to varying extents, and inoculation of plants with more efficient species of mycorrhizal fungi would therefore appear profitable.
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Characterisation of the hydraulic properties of soil columns via tension infiltrometer and dye tracer patterns: A dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Natural Resources Management and Ecological Engineering
(Lincoln University, 2007) Hanzl, Markus
Water is a renewable resource, which is naturally recycled in the hydrological cycle. Surface waters have a short residence time in the hydrological cycle, while ground waters have a long residence time. This recycling renews water resources and provides a continuous supply. Nowadays, water management is becoming more and more important, especially the modification of irrigation schemes. An effective irrigation management which is similar to "drainage control" will avoid a high water outflow from an irrigated area and therefore the nutrient losses in the outflow water can be negligible. This is absolutely important because nutrients, for example nitrates and phosphorus, can lead to problems in the drinking water supply of a region with intensive irrigation.Therefore, it is essential to know as much as possible of the soil hydraulic properties and to convert this knowledge into management practices for the efficient use of water and soil resources. Tension infiltrometers have become a valuable tool for field determination of soil hydraulic properties. To estimate necessary input parameters for the Hydros-ID model (which simulates the one-dimensional movement of water and solutes through the unsaturated zone), measurements were obtained in three lysimeters (D, E, F) of: tension infiltration rates, soil water content and suction using time domain reflectometry (TDR) probes and tensiometers, installed at fixed depths. Infiltration experiments were performed under 40 mm and 0 mm suctions. Hydros was used to estimate the soil hydraulic conductivitiy K(h) at the corresponding suction values (h in cm). Water retention data measured on replicate soil cores from the 3 lysimeters and K(h) data were fitted with the Mualem-van Genuchten (MvG) equation to estimate the lysimeters' water retention curves. The resulting curves showed significant differences from the measured ones from the laboratory tension table tests. Further, dye experiments were performed to identify the flow types of the lysimeters. To stain the flow pathways, the lysimeter surfaces were flooded with a dye solution of 10 litres Brilliant Blue FCF with a concentration of 10 g/1. After a few days, the lysimeters were excavated and brought into the lab for the vertical and horizontal profile analysis. Images were taken using a digital camera (Nikon Coolpix 8800) under daylight conditions. Photographs of the soil profiles were processed by image analysis to distinguish between stained and unstained areas and to classify the stained areas into classes of dye concentrations. The flow profiles showed a logical sequence, with macropore flow along cracks for the coarser lysimeters E and F, and homogeneous matrix flow for the finer structured lysimeter D
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An investigation of the effects of added sulphur and nitrogen to S-responsive and S-non-responsive soils from Canterbury on the digestibility and chemical composition of perennial ryegrass plants (Lolium perenne L.) : A thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Bachelor of Agricultural Science (Hons) in the University of Canterbury
(Lincoln College, University of Canterbury, 1976)
Several recent studies (Stewart & Porter, 1969; Baker et al, 1973) on crop plants and grass forages have shown that responses on large nitrogen (N) fertiliser applications were often limited by a deficiency of sulphur ( S). An inadequate supply of S not only affects yields, but also the quality of the herbage produced. In view of this close relationship between N and S nutrition in plants, the present study was undertaken to examine the interaction of N and S fertilisation on the yield and composition of perennial ryegrass in a pot experiment. The present study therefore attempts to determine: 1. effects of N and S fertilisation on the top and root yields of the grass ; 2. the influence of N and S on the quality of the grass herbage - as reflected by the percentage digestibility, chemical composition of N and S fractions and the amino acid composition of these plants , and 3. the S nutrition status of the grass from information concerning the quantity of N and S in the herbage.
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Sense of community, shyness and loneliness in Lincoln Village: A thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Degree of Bachelor of Social Science with Honours at Lincoln University
(Lincoln University, 2002) Hall, Carly Joanne
This study used quantitative research methods to investigate the relationships between sense of community, loneliness and shyness. A review of the literature indicated that sense of community had a negative association with loneliness, and that shy people were more likely to experience loneliness than non-shy people. Whilst also attempting to replicate previous research results between loneliness and shyness, and loneliness and sense of community, it was hypothesized that a further relationship would emerge between shyness and sense of community. A questionnaire was developed which included demographic questions, the UCLA Loneliness Scale, (version 3), (Russell, 1996), the revised Cheek and Buss shyness scale (Cheek, Cheek & Rothstein, 1986) and an adapted version of the Sense Of Community Index (SCI). A multi-stage cluster sample of 120 Lincoln residents produced 33 participants. There were no reliable correlations between the three variables, indicating rejection of the proposed hypothesis. Possible reasons for the results are discussed and future recommendations are presented. Despite the results, it is maintained that theoretical reasons warrant further investigation into these areas.
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Management planning for a city's parks and recreation system : Planning the parks and recreation system to benefit the urban community: [dissertation, Diploma in Parks and Recreation, Lincoln College]
(Lincoln College, University of Canterbury, 1981) Brown, Anthony
The following dissertation outlines an approach to Management Planning for a city Parks and Recreation System. Christchurch City, the administrative area under the authority of the Christchurch City Council, covering an area of 10158 hectares with a population of 164,256 people is used as an example.
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The organic and bio-dynamic food product markets in Canterbury : A dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Horticultural Science (Honours)
(Lincoln University, 1991) Keir, J. M.
Consumer, grower and retailer perspectives on the Canterbury organic and bio-dynamic markets were studied. The study consisted of two parts: a quantitative survey of Canterbury consumers coordinated in 1990 by Charlie Lamb and analyzed and written up by the author, and a qualitative series of interviews of Canterbury growers and retailers of organic and bio-dynamic food products. Literature reviewed suggested that a group of potential organic and bio-dynamic food purchasers existed, whose characteristics could be identified, to focus the promotion of the organic and biodynamic movements. Barriers of availability and lack of correct information, to the sale of organic and bio-dynamic produce were identified in the literature. Intrinsic and extrinsic reasons for organic and bio-dynamic food purchases were recognized. Results showed a group of potential organic and bio-dynamic consumers which consists of 32 % of consumers in the total New Zealand domestic market. Availability barriers were identified as restricting the potential increase of the organic and bio-dynamic markets. Health benefits were the drive behind the majority of organic and bio-dynamic food product purchases. It is concluded that a high profile of organic growers and retailers is essential to assist market expansion in Canterbury. This must involve an extensive education program and should target consumers concerned with their health, their family life and the environment. Involvement of controlling authorities in education and promotion would aid in this implementation.
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Supervision of casual labour during fruit harvesting: A dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the diploma of horticultural management
(Lincoln College, University of Canterbury, 1985) Newton, P. J.
Contained in this report are details of a study made of NZ fruit grower's supervisory methods for casual labour during the fruit harvest "season". Research was by means of case study, using a standardised questionaire, of a total of twelve fruit growing properties, in three regions - Auckland, Nelson and Canterbury. The properties chosen for the study employed sufficient casual labour for supervision of this labour to be an identifiable need, and between them showed a range of fruit crops and labour force characteristics. The questionnaire aimed at defining the supervisory practices and problems of these growers. Results from the case studies, together with a discussion based on review of relevant literature, are presented. The report concludes with recommendations for supervisory methods to be considered in the selection of supervisors for casual harvest labour, and for general staff policy.
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Improving labour productivity in apple harvesting
(Lincoln College, University of Canterbury, 1978) Longley, Brett
Very little study has been done on ways ofimproving labour productivity in horticulture in New Zealand. Productivity can be increased by increasingoutput and/or lowering inputs. In apple harvesting output can be raised by increasing the picking rate. Inputs can be lowered by lowering costs to the grower. Various factors affect picking rate. A number of these were selected for study and measured. Cropcondition was defined by the measurements of thesefactors. A work measurement technique was used to relate differences in picker performance to differences in crop condition, and to predict appropriate picking times. Different rates of pick under different crop conditions were related to different piece rates of pay via an "intended level of earnings" based on the award hourly rate plus allowances for holiday pay and a performance-related bonus. This variable piece rate system of payment enabled picker output to be increased by its incentive characteristic, and growers harvesting labour costs to be minimized by relating the per unit cost of picking the fruit to the crop condition. One main advantage of the variable piece rate system is that different rates are set according to objective measurements rather than subjective estimates. Another advantage is that the system outlined enables productivity-per man to be raised at much lower cost than by mechanizing harvesting operations.
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The effects of contracts on orcharding : A dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Diploma in Horticultural Management
(Lincoln University, 1991) Homan, Grant
Contained in this report are details of a study made of New Zealand fruit growers with regard to their systems of payment. Research was by means of case studies, using a standardised questionnaire, of a total of five fruit growing properties in two regions - Canterbury and Central Otago. The properties chosen for the study employed both contract labour and hourly rate labour, with comparisons between the two being made. The questionnaire aimed at defining the problems of both systems for the growers. Results from the case studies, together with a discussion on their interpretation, are presented. The report concludes with recommendations for growers wishing to consider using contract labour on their orchards.
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Horticultural training for the intellectually handicapped : A dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of the Diploma in Horticultural Management in Lincoln College, Canterbury
(Lincoln College, University of Canterbury, 1986) Bodsworth, David Rawhiri S.
This report describes the current horticultural training techniques employed on training units for the intellectually handicapped in New Zealand and discusses the therapeutic value of horticulture. It is based on case studies of two Rural Training Units of the New Zealand Society for the Intellectually Handicapped. Information was collected by means of semi-structured personal interviews with managers and supervisors of the units and the intellectually handicapped trainees themselves. Similar problems were found on both units. Some conflict appeared to exist between the production and training goals of management. There was also a regular turnover of the unit supervisors as a result of 'burnout'. Following the discussion of these and other findings the report concludes with recommendations for defining unit objectives, the use of horticulture on the units, staff selection and training, and other associated problems.
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Leaching losses of nitrate from undisturbed soil lysimeters under continuous and intermittent rainfall : A dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirement for the degree of Bachelor of Agricultural Science (Honours) at Lincoln College
(Lincoln College, University of Canterbury, 1988) Deane, T. H.
The amounts of NO₃⁻₋N leached from small undisturbed soil lysimeters (180mm diameter x 200-210mm deep) were compared under continuous and intermittent simulated rainfall conditions. Examination of breakthrough curves from both treatments indicated extensive preferential flow of solute had occurred through macropores such as earthworm burrows, plant root channels, natural structural cracks and large inter-aggregate spaces. Trends indicated that leaching of nitrate was initially less efficient under intermittent versus continuous rainfall. It was suggested that this was due to solute diffusion into intra-aggregate pores during the interval between intermittent rainfall events slowing down leaching losses. This mechanism also delayed the peak leachate NO₃⁻₋N concentrations by approximately 0 . 1 pore volume under intermittent versus continuous rainfall. Leaching losses under continuous and intermittent rain-fall of up to respectively were calculated to occur from NO₃⁻₋N fertiliser applied to the lysimeters offer 100 mm rainfall. It was suggested that fertiliser N losses would be less when several small rainfall or irrigation events immediately followed fertiliser application rather than one large rainfall/irrigation event.
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Effects on green manure crops on nitrogen loss and availability: A dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Bachelor of Agricultural Science with Honours At Lincoln University
(Lincoln University, 2002) Fowler, C. J. E.
Nitrogen (N) is the nutrient required in the largest quantity by arable crops. However, it is also a difficult nutrient to manage due to its susceptibility to loss through leaching, particularly in winter. In certified organic cropping systems, the supply of N to crops is further restrained by restrictions on fertiliser inputs. These factors have lead to a renewed interest in the use of green manure crops for improving N-use efficiency in conventional and organic arable cropping systems. This study involved a comparison between three green manure crops (oats (Avena saliva), lupins (Lupinus auguslifolius), oats-lupins biculture) and a fallow for their ability to conserve N over winter and influence N availability to a subsequent crop. Intact soil monolith lysimeters (19cm diameter x 30cm deep) were taken from an established organic farm and the experiment included four replicates of each treatment. Nitrate leaching losses from the various treatments were measured over the green manure growth period (March - October). All the green manure crops reduced the amount of N that was leached over winter. Cumulative N leaching loss was similar for the three green manure treatments (4.1 - 4.9 kg N ha⁻¹), and these were significantly lower than N loss from the fallow treatment (8.4 kg N ha⁻¹ ). Nitrogen uptake in green manure herbage was 100, 162, and 126 kg N ha⁻¹ for the oats, lupins, and oats-lupins, respectively, with corresponding herbage C:N ratios of 18, 13, and 16. Annual ryegrass (Lolium mulliflorum) was sown three weeks after green manure incorporation to assess their impact on N availability. Dry matter yield and N uptake by ryegrass was significantly greater for the oats lupins (689 kg DM ha⁻¹ , 22 kg N ha⁻¹) than the fallow treatment (297 kg DM ha⁻¹ , 9 .4 kg N ha⁻¹ ). The findings of this study demonstrated that a green manure is an effective means of reducing N leaching loss over winter and improving N supply to a subsequent crop.
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Amounts, forms and availability of nitrogen and phosphorus in soil under conventional and organic cropping: A dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirement for the degree of Bachelor of Science with Honours at Lincoln University
(Lincoln University, 2002) Horrocks, A. J.
Organic farming is increasingly being promoted as a sustainable alternative to conventional farming. There is, however, a need for a greater understanding of how the organic system can function sustainably within a New Zealand agricultural setting. This study investigated the amounts, forms and availability of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) in soil under conventional and organic cropping. Soil samples were taken to a depth of 70 cm from the conventionally managed Lincoln Mixed Cropping Farm (LCF) and the organically managed Biological Husbandry Unit (BHU) in Canterbury. These sites were chosen for comparison because they had the same soil type (Wakanui-fine sandy loam) and provided an opportunity to examine the effect of 25 years of contrasting management on nutrient amounts and availability. Analyses included organic carbon (C), total N and total P measurements. A 7-day anaerobic incubation was used to determine potentially mineralisable nitrogen (PMN), while isotopic exchange kinetics (IEK) was used to determine soil inorganic P availability. It was found that past management systems had not substantially affected organic C, total N and P levels of the topsoil (0-15 cm) but had significantly affected amounts of C and nutrients in the subsoil (15- 70 cm). Amounts of N, organic C and organic P were gre~ter at the BHU, which was attributed to the utilisation of deep rooting species. Inorganic P was greater in the LCF subsoil which may have been partially due to preferential leaching given the comparative lack of deep rooting species and the apparent high P fixing capacity (determined by IEK) of the subsoil. Greater pools of solution and readily available inorganic P in the BHU 0-7 .5 cm of soil indicated that the different cropping management systems had modified soil properties. The greater amounts detected at the BHU may reflect tillage regimes, intensity of production and the absence of animal grazing in the system. This study demonstrates the important role the subsoil plays regarding the nutrient fertility of cropping systems.
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A re-evaluation of soil variability and soil fertility in relation to experimental forest plots at Bridgehill Flat, Craigieburn Research Area, Canterbury, New Zealand : A thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the postgraduate diploma of Applied Science at Lincoln University Canterbury, New Zealand
(Lincoln University, 1994) Hassall, Leanne Jane
In 1979 Forest Research Institute (FRI) established a trial on high country forest and pastoral landuse at Flock Hill Station, in Canterbury. The soils of the trial site on a terrace, fan and hill slopes adjacent to Cave Stream, were surveyed in 1978, and in 1979 forests were planted on Craigieburn and Cass (Typic Allophanic Brown) and Castlehill (composite - Acidic Sandy Brown) soils. The area was stratified on the basis of the soil map and uneroded and eroded sites within delineations were sampled separately for soil fertility assessment in 1982 and 1984. Following the 1982 survey, the area was oversown with legumes and topdressed (300 kg ha⁻¹ superphosphate; 0.2 kg ha⁻¹ sodium molybdate). The current study (1994) includes a reassessment of soil fertility, improved definition of soil mapping units, and the analysis of soils not sampled at the time of the original survey. A Landform units map, a geomorphic surfaces map and soil map for the Bridgehill Block are all recorded. In twelve years the soil fertility under the trees is different than under adjacent grassland. In many plots available phosphorus (Bray P) levels have shown a sharper decline under grassland compared with adjacent forest, while the pH has decreased more in the soils under forest compared to those under grass.
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The relationship between extractable soil cobalt and the cobalt content of ryegrass and red clover grown on 12 New Zealand soils : A dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Bachelor of Agricultural Science (Honours) in the University of Canterbury
(Lincoln College, University of Canterbury, 1983) Hogg, D. S.
In New Zealand soil tests for macroelements such as phosphorus, sulphur, magnesium and potassium are satisfactory but there is a distinct lack of such tests for the micronutrients. New Zealand soils are not naturally fertile and often contain only small amounts of micronutrients. This is aggravated by the fact that these micronutrients have only limited availability in the soil and may be strongly retained by certain soil constituents. Cobalt: a micronutrient is essential for ruminant nutrition and for the growth and development of legume species. More precisely, cobalt is necessary for the symbiotic nitrogen-fixing bacteria associated with some legume species. As New Zealand pastoral agriculture is based on a low cost and low nitrogen input system, adequate supplies of cobalt are essential. Furthermore, the production of prime meat on these pastures, many of which occur on known cobalt deficient areas, benefits from good soil cobalt levels. With the movement towards more intensive agriculture and horticulture in New Zealand there is good economic reason for the development of a cobalt soil test to diagnose deficiencies and to provide both development and maintenance requirements. This project looked at total acetic acid-, EDTA- and calcium nitrate-extractable soil cobalt. Attempts were made to correlate these results with the cobalt content and uptake of perennial ryegrass and red clover grown on a wide range of New Zealand soils. Other soil constituents which affect the availability of cobalt were also considered. Species differences and the effect of the method of application on the cobalt content and uptake of the plant were studied.
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Strategies for farming out of a loss situation on a typical northland hill country farm: A dissertation presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Diploma in Farm Management in Lincoln College
(Lincoln College, University of Canterbury, 1988) Mein, P. J.
Many farmers in the sheep and beef agricultural sector are facing major financial problems at present. Rural Bank general manager Mr Ray Chappel stated at a seminar (26/5/88) that 2500 farmers were either insolvent or had such a high debt that they would eventually be forced off their farms. Perhaps an even more serious threat to the industry are the 15000 Rural Bank customers whose debt exceeds 50 percent of their assets, which is considered unsatisfactorily high in farming circles. The aim of this dissertation therefore is to explore: Other ways of farming a designated model farm. The options investigated are: 1 Sharefarming 2 Working off farm 3 Two different lease options 4 Two different bull beef policies 5 A new cow policy 6 All wool farming
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An assesssment of Travis Wetland water quality
(Lincoln University, 1999) Holland, J. M.
This report documents the results of a water quality survey of Travis Wetland, undertaken by two Lincoln University third-year students. Field sampling was undertaken in five different areas of the swamp to ensure representability, while data was collected over four occasions between April 14 and September 23, 1999 to examine variations in water quality over time. The four areas examined included the upper unmodified reaches, the willowshaded stretch and lower open reaches of Travis Stream, the central ponding area, and Angela Stream. Because of its unmodified nature, the upper Travis was used as a control from which the water quality of modified areas was compared. Standard water quality parameters were examined in order to provide a set of baseline information to the Christchurch City Council. Field observations including bird counts, a riparian assessment and an evaluation of the bank and channel conditions, whilst rainfall data was collected for analysis from the Burwood Hospital gauge. From this data, two simple hypotheses were tested- (i) that water quality would improve over time primarily as a result of the cessation of works; and (ii) that areas that had experienced the longest period since renovations would have the highest water quality. The first hypothesis was not conclusively supported by the results of the study. Although some parameters (including nitrate, turbidity and conductivity) are showing improvements, others (most notably reactive phosphates) depict either worsening or at best stable water quality over time. The second hypothesis was more favourably supported by the results. Highest overall water quality is found in the weir, which has had the longest period to recover. However, the lake, which had only just been completed prior to the beginning of fieldwork, showed surprisingly low nutrient levels, while the control exhibited the worst clarity despite remaining in its unmodified state throughout renovations. The major factors that may have upset the aforementioned hypotheses were identified as substrate type, riparian conditions (especially whether open or sheltered) and rainfall. The interrelatedness of these factors complicates the future management of water quality in the swamp. Therefore, further studies identifying and isolating the effects of such factors are required.
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Alternative workplace solutions for university academic staff : A dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements of the degree of Master of Property Studies at Lincoln University
(Lincoln University, 2001) Randrup, C. R. C.
Work roles and patterns are changing dramatically. Australian and New Zealand university academic staff have had their workload and the hours worked in an average working week increased. The nature of their work has radically changed to incorporate greater time on administration and less on research and teaching. Where and how academic staff work is now under review. The office workplace has evolved as tertiary organisations are looking at ways to improve their competitiveness, productivity and to accommodate within building resources the new direction of education delivery. In the 1960's office landscapes experienced new directions with the introduction of the burolandschaft or open office plan design. The office continues to undergo change, with current and emerging trends in technology enabling the development of the non-traditional approach to office space such as the concept of Alternative Workplace Strategies. These strategies provide for a variety of transient work patterns, undertaken at a variety of locations and venues. This research examines recent workplace strategies in tertiary organisations by investigating as a case study, Auckland University of Technology. It also endeavours to understand the changing working environment of academic staff and to ascertain the best-suited workplace approach or approaches. A questionnaire was prepared, circulated to two thirds of AUT academic staff and analysed. The research concludes that AUT academic staff should now be working in a variety of work settings, preferably a blend of the cell and club office arrangement. This approach provides the flexibility in workplace management withou~ causing major changes to the culture and organisational management processes of AUT.

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