Resource developments in the coastal zone : a study of planning and management for the West Coast, South Island

Abstract

Coastal zone management problems have been the focus of many conferences, seminars, and publications in recent years. In spite of the attention given to providing information and guidance for decision making, it has been suggested that the present coastal zone management approach in New Zealand remains inappropriate to the character and use of the zone. To address this issue, the existing management approach is examined to identify the types of problems that have arisen. This study discusses the West Coast of the South Island, New Zealand, as an example of an area where significant developments within the coastal zone may be proposed. An examination of the information available for coastal zone management on the West Coast provides the basis for identifying issues and conflicts that have resulted from the existing management approach. A generalised model of the planning and decision making process is developed, which provides a framework for examining the coastal system and assessing the adequacy of the present management approach.

The study incorporates an examination of the physical system on the West Coast, resource developments in the area, and institutional aspects of coastal zone management. This examination is used to draw attention to general inadequacies in the existing management approach, particularly those re la ting to uncertainties and institutional arrangements. An approach to coastal zone planning and management is developed, that addresses specific problems and uncertainties, with particular reference to the West Coast.

This approach is based on an understanding of the interactions between the physical system, resource uses, and institutional aspects of the coastal zone. Management uncertainties can be dealt with by the use of incremental decisions where existing information is inadequate or by gathering further information. A system of monitoring and evaluation to provide feedback to the decision making process is essential.

The existing framework for coastal zone management in New Zealand is shown to have several deficiencies. These deficiencies are related to an inadequate information base, existing jurisdictional boundaries, and fragmented policies and management directives. It is concluded that the resolution of these problems requires measures designed to provide guidelines for achieving management objectives, coordination between management agencies, and means of developing and implementing management responses.