Massey Documents by Type

Permanent URI for this communityhttps://mro.massey.ac.nz/handle/10179/294

Browse

Has files: YesSubject: search.filters.subject.Marine parks and reserves

Search Results

Now showing 1 - 3 of 3
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
    Ecology of sharks and human attitudes towards shark conservation in the Galapagos Marine Reserve : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy in Ecology at Massey University, Albany, New Zealand
    (Massey University, 2018) Acuña Marrero, David
    In this thesis, I used a multi-disciplinary approach to study both the spatial ecology of coastal sharks and human attitudes towards sharks at the Galapagos Marine Reserve (GMR). Benthic and pelagic baited remote underwater stereo-video systems recorded coastal shark assemblages that displayed high spatial variation, with the relative importance of environmental and biological drivers differing among shark species according to their mobility. Telemetry data (both acoustic and satellite) from tagged tiger sharks (Galeocerdo cuvier) showed a high degree of philopatry, with movements of adult tiger sharks concentrating at the most important nesting areas for sea turtles at the GMR. Using diver-operated stereo-video systems (DOVs) I demonstrated that non-instantaneous surveys yield estimates of shark densities that can almost double the ones obtained from instantaneous surveys. Furthermore, I proposed a new methodological approach to study attitudes towards sharks that proved to be reliable and informative, showing that attitudes were shaped by a range of psychological factors, such as aesthetics, and also by the socio-economic context of individual respondents. Strong correlations were found between attitudes and behavioural responses, such as tolerance or support for shark protection. In conclusion, I demonstrated that sharks at the GMR have species-specific and size-specific spatial requirements for particular habitats and food resources. Indeed, the presence of a predictable source of prey and suitable habitats at the GMR might reduce the spatial extent of the potential areas used by large and highly mobile shark species, such as tiger sharks, thereby enhancing the potential effectiveness of the GMR for their protection. I also propose the use of non-instantaneous DOV surveys to provide more accurate estimates of shark densities than underwater visual techniques. In addition, the multivariate methods used here for the first time to study human perspectives on sharks allowed me to identify specific attitudes and associated factors having the greatest influence on human behaviours towards shark conservation. In summary, with mounting anthropogenic pressures on shark populations, this thesis provides timely and critical information for the global objective of identifying effective strategies for the management and conservation of sharks to ensure their long-term survival.
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
    The effectiveness of New Zealand marine reserve advisory committees as a participatory mechanism : a thesis presented in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Master of Resource and Environment Planning at Massey University
    (Massey University, 2002) Uunila, Laani Kirsten
    Knowledge about participatory management practices in marine protection is deficient; despite this, participatory approaches are being used with increasing frequency. In New Zealand, marine reserve advisory committees (MRCs) are a means to facilitate public involvement in marine management. The aim of this study is to determine if MRCs are an effective participatory mechanism. Four case study MRCs are examined: Kapiti, Te Whanganui-A-Hei, Long Island-Kokomohua and Te Tapuwae o Rongokako. Data collection techniques include Department of Conservation (DOC) staff interviews, a MRC member survey and document analysis. The case study MRCs consist of eight or nine members, and include tangata whenua and interest groups. Membership is not representative of the inactive public. Comparing MRCs to theory indicates the committees are classic examples of elite advisory groups. Not all DOC staff and committee members have the same understanding of MRC roles or the benefits members receive from participation. Specific MRC roles vary, but can include advising DOC, creating public awareness initiatives and fostering community support. Absenteeism, DOC and Conservation Board support, funding, terms of reference and meeting frequency influence MRC effectiveness. The majority of DOC interviewees and MRC survey respondents are satisfied with the current system; however, MRC respondents desire more funding and resources. Only one case study MRC has a strong majority of respondents who want to augment their responsibilities and decision-making power. To increase the ability of MRCs to act, a framework of different levels of advisory committees is suggested. Means to improve the current MRC system include: networking between marine reserves; clarifying terminology used (e.g. participation and partnership); greater use of perceptual and traditional knowledge; a transparent process; tangible results; and providing MRC members with incentives and clear feedback. Building on other research, this thesis enhances the understanding of interactions between MRCs and DOC, and provides guidance that may be useful to build on current efforts to engage the local community in marine conservation. Though specific to New Zealand, the results are useful to planners and managers in other nations because effective participation and community support are key to the success of protected areas.
  • Thumbnail Image
    Item
    A framework for marine protection in New Zealand : a thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Philosophy in Resource and Environmental Planning
    (Massey University, 1995) Creamer, Michelle Louise
    Increased recognition of the need to protect New Zealand's marine environment for its ecological, social-cultural and economic values has occurred over the last decade. Knowledge of the Marine Reserves Act 1971 as a tool for marine protection has become widespread in recent years, partly as a result of the Department of Conservation's public education campaign. However, there is a lack of awareness of alternative statutory mechanisms available to protect New Zealand's marine environment in response to different requirements. This thesis identifies and analyses selected statutory mechanisms for protecting New Zealand's marine environment in order to develop a process of use to various groups to protect marine areas. Guidelines are developed to assist users in the application of this process, particularly the selection of the most appropriate mechanism for protection. Methods used in the development of this process included the conduct of interviews with staff in central and local government, analysis of statutes, review of government reports, and site visits to areas proposed for protection. The process was then tested in relation to two recent cases, Pollen Island and the Whanganui Inlet. A key contribution of this thesis is that it draws together a range of previously uncoordinated statutory mechanisms for marine protection and presents a process to assist groups in selecting the most appropriate means of marine protection. An important element of the process is its degree of flexibility in that it can be readily adapted to accommodate different requirements of marine protection and the mechanisms involved. In this respect, the thesis has contributed to the dissemination of knowledge about statutory mechanisms and their application for marine protection in New Zealand.