Record population growth centre-stage at Outdoors Forum

MONDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2015

Record population growth centre-stage at Outdoors Forum

Record population growth and changes in the activities people enjoy in the outdoors will be among the hot topics discussed at the New Zealand Recreation Association’s 2015 Outdoors Forum, being held in Wellington this week.

The number of people arriving in New Zealand is the highest since 1840. Population growth, an aging population, and increasing ethnic diversity mean the outdoors sector needs to adapt to ensure it is continuing to provide high quality and relevant experiences, said Andrew Leslie, Chief Executive of the New Zealand Recreation Association.

There were 114,000 permanent and long term arrivals in New Zealand in the 12 months to March 2015. That represents a net gain of 56,000 people.

“We need to be thinking about the types of services we provide,” Mr Leslie said.

“While some outdoor activities like walking, swimming and jogging/running are common across all ethnic groups, some are more specific. Asian groups, for example, favour badminton and cricket over, say, tramping, which is more popular with New Zealand European groups,” Mr Leslie said, citing some of the findings of Sport New Zealand’s Active New Zealand survey for 2013/14.

Other survey findings of note for the outdoors sector included higher levels of participation in canoeing/kayaking among people living in areas of low socio-economic deprivation, when compared to those living in area of medium- or high-deprivation. Hunting was among the top 10 most popular activities for people in small towns and rural communities, but did not make the top 10 for those in major- or secondary-urban areas.

“It’s important that we understand the demographic changes, and anticipate what people’s changing needs are, so that we can respond with the right type of services.”

A key speaker at the event will be Massey University’s Paul Spoonley, who will talk about trends in population growth. Other speakers include adventurer Kevin Biggar, champion adventure racer Nathan Fa’avae and Outward Bound director Rob MacLean.

Mr Biggar will discuss how outdoor experiences can equip people to overcome business and personal challenges, while Mr Fa’avae will focus on leadership, and Mr MacLean will explore how outdoor providers can influence decision makers and increase participation.

Mr Leslie said NZRA’s efforts to help the outdoors sector adapt to change is consistent with its objective of championing recreation for the benefit of New Zealand.

“Our view is that investing in recreation means investing in healthier people, connected communities and a strong economy. Being active in the outdoors is one important way in which migrants can connect with others and build their new lives here in a positive way.”

The Outdoors Forum will be held at the Abel Tasman Hotel in Wellington from 22 to 23 October, with the theme Embracing Change Together.

The event is New Zealand’s premier outdoors sector conference, bringing together outdoor providers, educators, volunteer organisations, advocates and researchers to discuss trends and innovative approaches to overcoming challenges faced by the sector. It also features the Outdoor Awards, on 22 October, celebrating individuals and organisations that have been successful in significantly improving outcomes for the outdoors sector.

ENDS

© Scoop Media