The Remarkables Skifield: a case study

Abstract

This thesis provides a case study of the decision making process for planning a skifield in the Remarkables Mountain Range, near Queenstown, New Zealand. I have examined the proposition that the ability to influence decision makers is distributed disproportionately amongst interest groups. Less affluent groups, newly established or potential groups and groups representing general or fragmented interests will be disadvantaged in decision making.

I analysed events in the Remarkables case from 1973, when a developer first applied for a lease to build a skifield on Crown land, until 1980, when planning permission for the field was finally confirmed. From the results of the case study I have argued that environmental interests were principally represented by new groups lacking financial resources. These interests were disadvantaged by a decision making process that was reactive and incremental.

I have acknowledged that generalisations cannot be made from one case study but these results have led me to conclude that certain conditions are required before effective public participation can be achieved in decision making. However I have stressed that the purpose of that participation must be established first.