Spring 2002 Journal
March 21st
Hitting the South Island today was a big, long inhalation of fresh air - the mountains surrounding us on either side, our first view of a "braided river" . . .and arriving at Lake Rotoiti, a scene of tranquillity that I can't wait to view at dawn tomorrow - the mountains rising up above the clear, still lake, maybe an early morning plunge into the chilling water .
Starting to think about eco-tourism . . .Ria said today that we have to keep in mind that conservation and
sustainability have to involve people . We will need to work effectively with all of the different 'stakeholders' for any conservation plan to work in the long term. I thought of just how much eco-tourism here is associated with the thrills, not necessarily on wilderness or beauty. Nick then pointed out that eco-tourism has to appeal to as many people as possible, not just those who are content to go tramping (which also has an impact of course). Time to go to sleep.
Sara
Student Entry: March 23rd