The Value of Parks : Inspire, refresh, conserve, protect, play
The human species has evolved from, and been nurtured by, the natural environment – we are a biological product of the earth itself. This deep connection is one that we must all remember. Our parks are the storehouse of our past and, more importantly, of our future.
These natural spaces often become our favourite places, having special meaning in our lives. They are crucial to our sense of wellbeing. Yet, the importance of these vital remnants of the natural world is often underestimated. Our iconic parks and vast natural landscapes not only give us a sense of place and reflect our culture, they also form the basis of a multi-billion dollar tourism industry, and a window through which we are seen by the rest of the world.
Large national parks are the strongholds of our plants, animals and ecosystems with all the values and benefits they bestow, from protecting water quality to providing habitat for marine fisheries.
Parks near and in our cities breathe peace and tranquillity, and sustain fun, family time, exercise, sport and the healthy outdoor lifestyle that is such a feature of life in Australia and New Zealand.