South Westland

Press, 28 July 1987, Page 20

South Westland

Sir,—l can understand the anxiety being felt at the prospect of losing 15 jobs in logging on the West Coast It is in such a situation, however, that one must begin to look positively at the alternatives. The extension of the Blakely Committee to include tourism is an important option for West Coast development. Tourism has a significant multiplier effect and, hence, the economic benefits must be greater than the jobs in logging. New Zealand has benefited from tourism, there is no doubt. The tremendous beauty that South Westland has is something to show off to New Zealanders and overseas tourists. Heritage status would protect this asset but, through tourism, allow it to be valued in terms that are not only economic.—Yours, etc., ALANAH WRIGHT. Rangiora, July 21, 1987.

Sir,—Your article on South Westland (July 17) devotes six lines to the South Westland Management Evaluation Programme — perhaps the most comprehensive review of a region’s resources made in New Zealand. All aspects of the region were considered in this study, including employment opportunities for local and other people. Results were explained to the Blakeley committee at a seminar in Hokitika. South Westland residents’ representatives attended. The views expressed must form the major basis for the Blakeley committee’s deliberations if they are to be credible. Some facts highlighted in the Evaluation Programme report cannot be ignored. Much of the terrain is extremely steep. It is held in place largely by forest under very high rainfall. Almost all the soils show evidence of mixing by down-slope movement Removal of. forest would ensure rapid erosion. Loss of developed land on flood plains would follow. Maintenance of forest will ensure that existing values are protected. — Yours, etc., G. MEW. Nelson, July 23, 1987.