Book highlights the role of parks in urban life

Manukau residents can now get a better understanding of the role played by parks in urban life.

The Parks Forum, an industry association for park managers in New Zealand and Australia, has released “The Value of Parks”, a book about parks and green space in urban environment.

Our parks protect and conserve unique species, landscapes and marine environments, says Kristen Ross, a ranger from Manukau Parks. “As climate change takes hold, parks will be protecting carbon storing plants.”

Parks also help build healthy communities. “Contact with nature enriches our wellbeing. In them we find a sense of enjoyment,” Ms Ross says. Manukau Parks offer a range of recreation activities to bring families and friends together in appealing places.

Parks also support our economy. “Parks contribute through tourism, employment and expenditure. Properties close to urban parks have shown to have higher values. Parks also offer free space for events and recreational activities.

“Parks’ role in safeguarding the heritage of our indigenous cultures goes back thousands of years.”

If you haven’t visited your local park or reserve recently, the World Parks Day on Saturday 20 September might be a good time.

The book can be downloaded from this link (2.6MB PDF file):
http://www.parksforum.org/docs/Value%20of%20Parks%20Document.pdf