Mountain Biking in the Manawatu Region: Participants, Perceptions, and Management Dimensions |
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| Authors: | SARAH LEBERMAN PETER MASON |
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| Institution: | Department of Management Systems at Massey University;Luton University in the UK. |
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| Abstract: | The increase in the number of mountain bikers world‐wide has raised a number of issues associated with impacts and appropriate management strategies. Studies in the USA, UK and New Zealand have indicated a growing concern with environmental impacts, demonstrated attitudes of other recreationalists to mountain bikers and identified a number of management issues. This article presents the findings from field research conducted during the southern summer of 1997/8. The research was carried out in association with the Palmerston North City Council (PNCC) and the Manawatu Mountain Bike Club. The aims of the research were to investigate the demographics of mountain bikers and related management issues. Key findings of the field research were that: access to mountain biking opportunities was a problem; information provision was poor; there was conflict between user groups; there was a lack of agreement on whether there should be dedicated or multi‐use tracks. The article discusses how the research findings have been used to assist in the creation of an outdoor recreation and tourism strategy for Palmerston North. A model for managing recreation /tourism activities is also suggested. |
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