CONSTRUCTING AN ACCESSIBILITY FRAMEWORK FOR A DEVELOPING GEOPARK: TOURISM, IMPACT, AND PRESERVATION

In order to ensure that the environment is something that can be appreciated by all, destinations must be made accessible to visitors with different needs and abilities. This study proposes a framework for assessing the development of sites within a proposed geopark on Banks Peninsula, New Zealand. To determine levels of accessibility at geosites, a series of questions was developed to assess whether improvements to a proposed in regards to access is achievable or responsible. Criteria were compiled using accepted frameworks for levels of access in existing public recreation areas in New Zealand and worldwide. These criteria were then applied to several sites of interest in the developing geopark to determine acceptable levels of accessibility. Assessed sites are classified as Level A - grade, cross-slope, and width of paths to accommodate for wheelchair travel, Level B - low grade track with occasional short sections of steeper slopes, Level C - tracks may involve scrambling or small stream crossings, and Level D - routes may be less track-like, requiring trampers to rely on markings. Due to the environmentally-focussed nature of geotourism, development of access cannot take place without consideration of its impacts. Geosites showcase features of geological, ecological, and cultural interest which should be preserved in their development. Access will be upgraded to Level A if this can be done without negatively impacting the environment or cultural value of the site, and if not then the site will be developed at the least detrimental level of accessibility. Of the proposed accessibility levels, Level A will have the greatest site disturbance, whereas Level D will have the least. The best course of action for establishment of sites is determined based on the maximum amount of access that can be created in the least impactful, most responsible manner.