30 June 2004 Research on Chinese Experience of Christchurch Botanic Gardens

Chinese visitors' understanding and expectations of Christchurch Botanic Gardens are being explored in a Lincoln University research project aimed at enhancing the enjoyment and experience of the facility by its complex ethnic mix of patrons.

"Chinese tourists, migrants and students make up a significant proportion of visitors to the Gardens but there is no research-based information available on what they enjoy or expect from the experience or the underlying factors that cause them to have particular understandings and expectations about the Gardens," says Lincoln University horticultural management student Xiaomeng (Sharon) Sun, who is carrying out the research for a masters degree in applied science.

A paper on the work won Sharon third prize from 18 research presentations made at Lincoln University's 2004 Postgraduate Conference held on the campus this week. (w/c 28 June).

The findings from the project are expected to provide research-based suggestions for Christchurch Botanic Gardens as it fine tunes its management of the Gardens' diverse range of visitors. The Gardens are required to consult with their client communities under the Local Government Act 2002.

Ian Collins, Journalist, Lincoln University, Canterbury, New Zealand