The Experiences of Summer Visitors to Cape Rodney–Okakari Point (Goat Island) Marine Reserve, Auckland, New Zealand

Abstract

Cape Rodney–Okakari Point (Goat Island) Marine Reserve, established in 1975, is New Zealand's oldest and most visited marine protected area (MPA). This study reports on the experiences of its visitors. A self-reply questionnaire (n=305) using the real-time satisfaction (RTS) measurement was utilized to investigate peak summer visitors' activities, satisfaction levels, and knowledge of marine protection. Results revealed a diversity of visitors who primarily identify the reserve as a place to “swim with the fish.” Visitors were mostly satisfied, but were dissatisfied with a number of aspects, primarily overcrowding and the lack of parking. Results indicated there is support for stronger managerial approaches to limit visitor numbers and restrict activities such as commercial tourism.