Cultural Clash: Interpreting Established Use and New Tourism Activities in Protected Natural Areas

Abstract

Protected natural areas are a significant tourism resource in many countries, including Norway, Sweden, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. The provision of tourism facilities in such areas is increasing but this is not without controversy. Tensions have arisen in some areas where international tourist visitation is believed to be affecting traditional cultural and recreational practices. Despite this, little research attention has been given to exploring local users’ attitudes towards tourism activities in areas where they have traditionally not existed. Using Fiordland National Park as a case study, this paper reports research on recreational wilderness use in New Zealand by locals and visiting international tourists. Its focus is on local recreationists’ attitudes towards international wilderness tourism. The discussion draws on data gathered using in‐depth interviews and research diaries. Findings revealed that international tourists were often viewed as a threat to New Zealanders’ recreation opportunities and cultural identity. These attitudes appear to be influenced by widely held values and beliefs about the purpose of public conservation lands. A consideration of the links between the natural environment and national identity is seen as crucial when planning for tourism in protected natural areas in the future.

Key Words:

• Tourism
• protected natural areas
• cultural values
• recreational conflict
• New Zealand

Notes

1. “Kiwi” is the colloquial name often given to New Zealanders.

2. “Tramping” is a New Zealand term, used to describe the activity of extended walks or “hikes” (generally with a back pack and often on conservation land). The term also has cultural connotations, involving connections with the New Zealand landscape.

3. For a review and critique of existing recreation conflict research see Vaske, Needham, and Cline (2007).

4. There are nine Great Walks in New Zealand. Great walks are New Zealand’s premier walking tracks, and are especially popular amongst overseas visitors. They are located in areas of great scenic beauty, and the huts and tracks are of a higher standard than other tramping tracks. Many of the Great Walks have management systems in place (such as booking systems or recommended one‐way walking routes) during high season to ease visitor pressure. Guiding companies operate on several of the Great Walks.