Day walkers in Tongariro National Park: characteristics, motivations, expectations, perceptions and satisfaction

Abstract

This study investigates summertime users of five selected day walks in Tongariro National Park. It examines day walkers' characteristics, trip patterns, motivations, expectations, perceptions and satisfaction levels. A model of factors affecting the behaviour of outdoor recreationists was developed. It incorporates the decision-making process prior to the trip, the actual experience and the trip evaluation. A self-administered questionnaire utilising the model was developed for an on-site visitor survey. The survey used stratified random sampling techniques and was carried out between mid-January and the Easter weekend 1997. The responses of 773 day walkers in Tongariro National Park were analysed. The walks were found to attract both domestic and overseas visitors. Walkers displayed a diversity of characteristics and trip patterns. The desire to go for a walk and to view the scenery were the most common motivations for the trip, while the sites were chosen for a variety of often practical reasons. The consulted information sources varied between nationalities and walks, as did the most enjoyed aspects of the walk and the fulfilment of expectations. Trip expectations were of both site-specific and site-unspecific nature and were generally fulfilled. The Park's natural features strongly contributed to day walkers' enjoyment. Crowding perceptions were found to be affected by the walks' characteristics, visitors' origin and past experience, and actual visitor numbers. The condition of facilities was generally considered very good but differed slightly between walks. Satisfaction levels with overall trip experiences were high and walkers considered going on similar walks in the future. Conclusions from the survey were drawn and some recommendations for future management made.