Regionalism, regional planning and resource management : a case study of the Waitaki

Abstract

Research undertaken in different methodological and organisational systems is of limited value unless it can be employed in a common framework. In New Zealand) we have the skeleton of such a framework in the 'regional' provisions of the 1974 Local Government Act and the 1977 Town and Country Planning Act. This study examines this framework and the potential of regional planning as a process for co-ordinating policy formation and implementation in a specific regional resource management context - the Waitaki Catchment. In examining regional planning as a process) no attempt is made to prepare a regional planning scheme, but the study does attempt to offer insights and guidelines as to how interested parties in the Waitaki Catchment might participate in the process of formulating such a scheme.

A regional approach to resource issues is justified by an examination of recreation issues in the area. Similarly a general exposition of issues which warrant a regional rather than a purely local or district approach is undertaken and a framework is developed in which these issues may be related.

A process by which regional policy may be formulated with regard to these issues is examined as are the Issues relating to the effectuation of such policy.

The study concludes that a regional planning approach to resource management has considerable potential but a range of legislative and administrative changes may be necessary if regional planning, as a process, is to realise its full potential.