National parks of New Zealand

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Map of New Zealand National Park
Information board in Abel Tasman NP 04
Totaranui Beach 01
Hooker Valley in front of Mount Cook Range
Edwards Valley, Arthur's Pass National Park, New Zealand 09

National Parks of New Zealand are protected areas administered by the Department of Conservation (DOC) for the purpose of preserving New Zealand's natural and cultural heritage for the enjoyment of the public and the education and preservation for future generations. New Zealand's national parks cover diverse landscapes, from coastal regions and native forests to alpine areas and volcanic landscapes, reflecting the country's unique biodiversity and geology.

History[edit | edit source]

The concept of national parks in New Zealand was inspired by the national park movement in the United States and the United Kingdom. The first national park established in New Zealand was Tongariro National Park, created in 1887 through the donation of land by the Maori chief Te Heuheu Tukino IV. This act of conservation was one of the earliest in the world where indigenous people contributed to the establishment of a national park. Since then, the network of national parks has expanded to include a diverse range of ecosystems and landscapes.

Legislation[edit | edit source]

The administration and management of national parks in New Zealand are governed by the National Parks Act 1980. This act outlines the criteria for the establishment of national parks, their management objectives, and the powers and functions of the DOC. The primary objective is the preservation of natural and historic resources for the benefit of the public. Activities within national parks are regulated to ensure they are consistent with the principles of conservation and the parks' natural values are maintained.

List of National Parks[edit | edit source]

New Zealand has 13 national parks, each with its unique attractions and ecosystems. These include:

Conservation and Challenges[edit | edit source]

The national parks of New Zealand face various conservation challenges, including invasive species, climate change, and increasing tourism pressure. The DOC employs a range of conservation strategies, such as pest control programs, habitat restoration, and visitor education, to mitigate these challenges and ensure the protection of the parks' natural and cultural values.

Recreation and Tourism[edit | edit source]

National parks in New Zealand offer a wide range of recreational activities, including hiking, skiing, kayaking, and bird watching, attracting both domestic and international tourists. The Great Walks, a series of premier hiking tracks that pass through some of the most spectacular landscapes, are among the most popular attractions.

See Also[edit | edit source]

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD