This report arose out the need for more research into Maori participation in outdoor recreation within the conservation estate. To its credit, DOC has recognised the need to assess the cultural appropriateness of its recreational policy and practice and to better understand Maori attitudes to recreational use of the conservation estate. The primary purpose of this research, therefore, was to develop a better understanding of Maori recreational needs within the conservation estate and to develop a so-called 'Treaty based approach' in the management of the conservation estate to better provide for these needs.