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Making new blue economy in Kaikōura
The Kaikōura research investigates a community-led approach to developing a place-based blue economy in Kaikōura, focusing on local engagement and Māori-led initiatives.
Introduction to Kaikōura's blue economy
Kaikōura, a region in New Zealand, has historically generated income from its mixed marine economy, providing exemplary ecological, economic, and social models of regional development. Following a significant earthquake in 2016, which disrupted the area's economy, there was a pressing need for economic remaking. This report details a research project focusing on community-led economic creation and participatory environmental management. Through a participatory process, community members, hapu, iwi, Council, and businesses and business organisations built collective value propositions that realigned economic initiatives with ecological and social ambitions to fashion innovative economic futures.
Dynamics of development, community participation, and successful regional rent platforms
Widespread participation in development discussions established collective interests and shared understandings that allowed for exploring diverse economic and ecological initiatives and building collective value propositions. Collective value propositions allowed for diverse groups to share in the benefits of economic activities based on shared resources such as the ocean, local social institutions, and images of place, and for those activities to be aligned and synergistic when feasible. The approach reduces resource conflict and encourages widespread economic participation. This place-based development approach can be understood as a common 'geographical rent platform' and can be aligned with wider regional or national interest. Strong relationships enable communities to resolve conflicting interests when they arise.
Outcomes and strategic insights
The case study offers multiple insights and propositions for future regional development. These include the value of place-based approaches, the importance of community participation, the significance of Māori-led initiatives, and the importance of Māori leadership. The case highlights the possibilities of building a resilient, community-oriented and place-based blue economy around high-value, world-class, sustainable eco-tourism. It also demonstrates the economic potential of well-developed conservation initiatives such as MPAs. This research contributes substantively to understanding concurrent regional developments, such as post-disaster recovery efforts and the implications of national policies like the Provincial Growth Fund. The case provides an exemplar for other regions.
Key insights
Community collaboration as a cornerstone of successful economic development
After the 2016 earthquake, Kaikōura's community collaboration emerged as critical in reshaping its economy. By drawing on local knowledge and values, the area's future economic plans became anchored in sustainability and inclusivity. This showcased the viability of collective action in bridging ecological stewardship with economic revitalization.
Māori involvement in redefining regional development strategies
Māori presence and engagement in regional development is pronounced, where their role extends beyond local input to encompass governance and economic direction. Through initiatives like stewarding of marine protected areas, Māori authorities have redefined resourcefulness and set a precedent for culturally-grounded, sustainable regional growth.
Eco-tourism as a driver for sustainable regional growth
Eco-tourism, particularly when led by Māori economic actors and local enterprises such as Whale Watch Kaikōura, has forged a sustainable path for the region, balancing ecological concerns with social opportunities and economic interests. This approach can serve as a model for other regions seeking to capitalise on natural resources by developing collective value propositions, while prioritising environmental conservation and community benefits.
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Knowledge guiding change.
© Copyright 2024 - Tohorā
© Copyright 2024 - Tohorā
Knowledge guiding change.
