Persuasive Writing: New Zealand Forests

Name:

Date:

🌿 Background Information

New Zealand's forests are some of the most unique and ancient in the world. Over 80% of New Zealand's native plants and animals are found nowhere else on Earth. Our forests are home to incredible creatures like the kiwi, kākāpō, and tuatara, as well as towering kauri trees that can live for over 2,000 years.

Every year, millions of tourists visit New Zealand to experience our stunning forests — from the Fiordland rainforests to the Waipoua Forest in Northland. However, tourism can cause real harm. Visitors can spread kauri dieback disease, disturb wildlife, damage plant life by walking off tracks, and leave litter behind. Some people believe we must limit or stop tourist access to protect these taonga (treasures) for future generations.

Your challenge: Write a persuasive letter or speech either encouraging tourists to visit New Zealand forests OR arguing that tourists should stay away to protect them. You must choose ONE side and argue it convincingly!

📋 Part 1: Plan Your Argument

1. Which side will you argue? Circle your choice:

YES — Tourists SHOULD visit New Zealand forests.

NO — Tourists should STAY AWAY to protect our forests.

2. Write your opinion statement (one clear sentence that states your position):

3. List THREE reasons that support your argument. Think about the environment, economy, education, or conservation.

Reason 1: _______________________________________________________________________________

Reason 2: _______________________________________________________________________________

Reason 3: _______________________________________________________________________________

4. What is ONE argument the other side might make? How would you respond to it?

Their argument: _________________________________________________________________________

My response: ____________________________________________________________________________

5. Tick the persuasive techniques you plan to use in your writing:

Rhetorical questions (e.g. "Can we really afford to lose these forests?")

Facts and statistics

Emotive language (words that make the reader feel something)

Expert opinion or quotes

A call to action (telling the reader what to do)

✏️ Part 2: Write Your Persuasive Piece

Using your plan above, write your persuasive letter or speech. Remember to: state your opinion clearly → give reasons with evidence → address the other side → finish with a strong conclusion.