Abstract
The political activity associated with the Huntly Power Project was examined in relation to a number of case studies using a Symbolic Interactionist approach to illustrate processes of power.
A broad view of the politics of energy use in New Zealand provided the setting to understand why there was continued Government Support for the project.
An analysis of the case studies and their relationship to the Huntly Power Project Planning Forum permitted an appraisal of the influence of the Forum on Political interaction.
It was confirmed that political activity was characterised by negotiation through the processes of symbolic manipulation and control of information.
The influence of the Forum for discussion primarily benefitted Government Departments for in conflict situations it promoted compromises which supported the overall goal to complete the project. It provided an opportunity to accommodate local interest group concerns and problems.
The Forum was largely successful as a device for the amelioration and mediation of conflict among groups which voiced reservation, about the effects of the project on the local area, when it was proposed and in its initial stages of development.
Publisher
The University of Waikato
Rights
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