New Zealand, because of its geographic isolation, harbours unique biological qualities. Human occupation inevitably disrupted this natural order. Gradual degradation of these natural qualities can easily go unnoticed and unchecked. The bulk of our nature reserves are on land unsuited to agriculture, whereas the significance and vulnerability of our total natural heritage requires a reserve network representing all land classes. To ensure protection of vital natural areas they must be of viable proportions and segregated from incompatible uses. There are practical and spiritual reasons for nature conservation which offer beneficial options for land use. A wide range of conservation measures is available to the landowner. Keywords: farm tourism, land management, multipurpose, nature conservation, reserves
