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People using the nation's rivers for recreation - including swimming, boating and fishing - are to be surveyed on how and why they use waterways.
The internet survey will be launched on November 1, and Otago University researchers said yesterday they will also visit rivers over the summer to encourage people to participate in the survey. Otago phys-ed lecturer Dr Shayne Galloway said: "There is a significant gap in knowledge regarding recreational users and their needs, as compared to industry use and needs.
"If we can gather good empirical evidence from all the river-user groups in the country, we can provide relevant policy makers with an accurate picture of how important recreational users hold their rivers to be."
The analysis would include Maori taking part in traditional activities such as food-gathering and canoe racing.
The survey will be available at www.riversurvey.otago.ac.nz.
- NZPA
