This course explores the interface between recreation, tourism, and protected natural areas. Students investigate current trends in nature-based recreation and tourism, the associated social and biophysical impacts, legislative contexts in Aotearoa-New Zealand, and global perspectives. The course emphasises applied management and planning tools designed for the unique challenges of managing recreation and tourism in protected environments.

Course Content

• Trends and developments in nature-based recreation and tourism

• Legislative context affecting protected areas in New Zealand

• Global perspectives on protected areas

• Trade-offs between conservation and recreational/tourism use

• Social and biophysical impacts of recreation and tourism

• Visitor management frameworks and negative impact mitigation

• Contemporary issues in the management of protected areas

• Visitor behaviour analysis

• Applied management and planning tools for recreation and tourism