Aotearoa is g restless land with an eventful though isolated history which has spawned many distinctive biological qualities. Human occupation decreased our isolation and increased rates of change. Consequently, our potential natural and cultural identity is in danger of being swamped by cosmopolitan, temperate elements. This has serious consequences for agriculture, tourism, our sensitivity to local and global environmental issues, and the development of a nationhood founded on sturdy roots that dig deeply into the texture and history of the land. We examine the values of natural landscape, concepts of land custodianship, a conservation ethic and practical ways of integrating protection of natural values and sustainable production. Keywords change, conservation, culture, development, habitats, history, land management, landscape, vegetation
