“…Patrick’s relaxed personal style and communication skills ensured that the work progressed with the minimum of delays and with the full support of those involved. …They have added considerably to the Department’s understanding of visitors to the areas it manages.”
Background and aims
New Zealand’s Department of Conservation (DOC) wanted to measure visitor satisfaction with recreation track quality and perceptions of visitor crowding across a representative sample of its 2050 easily accessible through to remote tracks. It also wanted to find out general demographic information about its visitors. In 2003, 2004 and 2005 it engaged GR (then Leisure Matters) to design and manage this research. A representative range of around 500 DOC sites were surveyed over three years.
Our role
Global Research designed the surveys and managed a team to survey at each site. Tasks included: managing logistics and data, completing analysis and preparing and presenting reports to the Department.
Design and method
A questionnaire was created based on previous comparable national and international research. A statistically robust sample was created and sites were selected. Face to face surveys were administered at track ends. In very remote places surveys were left in boxes or at backcountry huts to be posted back after completion.
Result
DOC assessed its track standards and reviewed its track classification system to ensure it met visitors’ needs. It also gained a better understanding of who its visitors were and their preferences.
Outcome
Visitors to New Zealand’s National Parks and outdoor recreation areas have facilities that better meet their needs. Management is better informed to make decisions about particular track types. This has resulted in better long-term sustainable management of New Zealand’s natural areas and parks.