Kapati Island,a natural area in demand: Assessing social impacts

Kapiti Island Nature Reserve is an example of a fully protected natural area that is under pressure for increasing visitor access. Present restrictions on visitor numbers to this bird sanctuary provided for a controlled setting which was used as a case study in social impact assessment. The aim was to develop methods of monitoring visitors' perceptions of social impacts, and to establish an appropriate carrying capacity. Visitor experiences were first explored by using qualitative methods. Second, items based on these qualitative data were then used to define quantitative data and validate measures and procedures. The wider application of this research is the development of methods of assessment relevant to other natural areas which are also coming under pressure from growing domestic and international visitation.