Our Islands Our Selves               A History of Conservation in New Zealand 


identifies the issues, personalities and organisations surrounding conservation over the past 200 years. It includes significant discussion on the cultural influences of Maori and European views of nature. In this first-ever history of conservation in New Zealand, David Young explores the evolution of a conservation ethic.

While the basis for conservation is the recognition of New Zealand's unique flora and fauna, Young contends that conservation in New Zealand is not just a need to protect this indigenous biodiversity. Conservation is also linked to a sense of identity and community.


Modern New Zealand has evolved from a 'quarry economy' to a modern society grappling with erosion and flooding issues, predator proliferation, and habitat and species loss. As the concerns of the nation have shifted, the approaches to conservation have also changed: from acclimatisation of exotic species to national parks, the development of island sanctuaries and, now, an ecological approach that protects relationships as well as specific flora and fauna.

Young's work illustrates how far our perceptions and actions have come, how often the country got it wrong, and what might still need to done to protect New Zealand's natural environment.                                    
        

Justice Joe Williams and David Young's Conversation   
13 Videos as part of Sustainable Future's Project     
                                                                 

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Conversations recorded in Wellington, NZ in June 2008 
as part of Sustainable Future's Project 2058. 
To find out more about Sustainable Future and the Conversations visit www.sustainablefuture.info

Published by Otago University Press, 2004 
in association with the Department of 
Conservation and Ministry for Culture and
Heritage.       http://www.otago.ac.nz  
     
ISBN 1877276 94 4 
ISBN-13978-187727694          

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