As I previously mentioned, I am working on a research project with NZTRI to gauge visitor interest in a “3 day island journey experience” on Motutapu Island, just off the coast of Auckland. When I got to NZTRI they had already gathered the data, which consisted of an online survey on ATEED’s Facebook page as well as a few in person interviews. Most of the visitors were from New Zealand, and many expressed their concern for opening up the islands to further commercialization. I have noticed that Kiwis are very interested in taking care of their environment. Since tourism is their second largest export earner (after dairy farming/agriculture), it’s in the country’s best interest to preserve and protect it. Although I am currently in Auckland where about a third of the country’s population resides, you only have to drive half an hour out of the city to experience some of the varied ecosystems. Volcanic islands are also just a 40 minute ferry ride away.
As with most cities, Auckland suffers from road congestion. Buses are the main mode of public transportation. When I first arrived and I began walking around the city, diesel fumes filled the air. Almost all vehicles run on diesel and I feel as if most of them haven’t passed an emissions test in years. The New Zealand government is trying to promote bicycling as a viable mode of transportation, but with the amount of fumes from all the vehicles on the road, it’s a health hazard. The central business district is not as pedestrian friendly as it should be; vehicles have the right of way. It’s very interesting because Auckland’s CBD is very compact with only 3 or 4 major areas all within walking distance. Yet, the city has many steep hills to climb so many people end up using vehicles within the city to get around. Many cafes and restaurants also have outside seating, which I never use because of the aforementioned fumes problem. New Zealand is still a relatively young country, but hopefully they will begin to change some of their environmental issues before they become a larger problem.