National Parks of NZ
Our country is blessed with an extraordinary array of landscapes, from volcanic peaks to pristine beaches, ancient forests to glacial valleys. At the heart of this natural splendour lie our national parks, protected areas that showcase the very best of our unique ecosystems and provide havens for our native flora and fauna.
A Rich History of Conservation
The concept of national parks in our nation dates back to 1887 when Tongariro National Park was established, making it the fourth national park in the world. This groundbreaking act of conservation came about through the foresight and generosity of Ngāti Tūwharetoa paramount chief Horonuku Te Heuheu Tūkino IV, who gifted the sacred peaks of Tongariro, Ngāuruhoe, and Ruapehu to the Crown to ensure their protection for future generations.
Since then, our commitment to preserving our natural heritage has grown, and we now boast 13 national parks spread across both the North and South Islands. These parks cover more than 30,000 square kilometres, representing about 11% of our total land area.
Diverse Landscapes and Ecosystems
Each of our national parks offers a unique glimpse into the diverse ecosystems that make up our country:
North Island Parks
- Tongariro National Park: Home to three active volcanoes and diverse ecosystems, Tongariro is our oldest national park and a UNESCO Dual World Heritage site.
- Egmont National Park: Centred around the perfectly conical Mount Taranaki, this park features lush rainforests and alpine gardens.
- Whanganui National Park: Showcasing the majestic Whanganui River, this park offers excellent opportunities for canoeing and encountering native wildlife.
South Island Parks
- Abel Tasman National Park: Known for its golden beaches and turquoise waters, Abel Tasman is a coastal paradise perfect for kayaking and hiking.
- Kahurangi National Park: Home to the Heaphy Track, one of our Great Walks, Kahurangi boasts diverse landscapes from alpine tussock lands to lush forests.
- Nelson Lakes National Park: Featuring picturesque lakes surrounded by beech forests, this park is a haven for birdwatchers and hikers alike.
- Paparoa National Park: Famous for the Pancake Rocks and blowholes at Punakaiki, Paparoa offers a unique limestone landscape.
- Arthur’s Pass National Park: Straddling the Southern Alps, this park provides dramatic mountain scenery and is home to the cheeky kea, the world’s only alpine parrot.
- Westland Tai Poutini National Park: Showcasing the Franz Josef and Fox glaciers, this park stretches from the Southern Alps to the Tasman Sea.
- Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park: Home to our highest peak and part of the UNESCO World Heritage site Te Wāhipounamu, this park offers unparalleled alpine scenery.
- Mount Aspiring National Park: A paradise for mountaineers and hikers, this park features stunning mountain peaks, valleys, and rivers.
- Fiordland National Park: Our largest national park, Fiordland is renowned for its dramatic fiords, including the iconic Milford Sound.
- Rakiura National Park: Covering most of Stewart Island, this park offers a glimpse into pristine native forests and is a stronghold for many of our native bird species.
Conservation and Recreation
Our national parks serve a dual purpose: preserving our unique ecosystems and providing opportunities for recreation and education. The Department of Conservation (DOC) manages these parks, balancing conservation efforts with facilitating public access and enjoyment.
Many of our most popular hiking trails, including nine of the ten Great Walks, are located within national parks. These range from day walks to multi-day treks, catering to various fitness levels and offering immersive experiences in our natural environments.
Cultural Significance
Our national parks are not just areas of natural beauty; they hold deep cultural significance, particularly for Māori. Many parks, like Tongariro, are intertwined with Māori history and legend. The partnership between the Crown and Māori in managing these areas is an essential aspect of our conservation efforts, recognising the role of tangata whenua as kaitiaki (guardians) of the land.
Challenges and Future Outlook
While our national parks are protected areas, they face ongoing challenges. Climate change, invasive species, and increasing visitor numbers all pose threats to these delicate ecosystems.
Tourism, while economically beneficial, can strain park resources and infrastructure. In 2017, approximately 1.5 million international tourists visited a national park during their stay. Balancing tourism with conservation is an ongoing challenge for park management.
Conservation efforts, such as predator control programmes and habitat restoration projects, are crucial in maintaining the health of our national parks. Initiatives like Predator Free 2050 aim to protect our native species and restore our natural ecosystems.
Our national parks are more than just scenic landscapes; they are living treasures that embody our natural heritage. As Kiwis, we have a responsibility to cherish, protect, and enjoy these areas responsibly. Whether it’s a day trip to Tongariro or a multi-day hike in Fiordland, our national parks offer unparalleled opportunities to connect with nature and appreciate the unique beauty of our country.
By continuing to support conservation efforts and practicing responsible tourism, we can ensure that these natural wonders remain protected for future generations to enjoy, just as Horonuku Te Heuheu Tūkino IV envisioned over a century ago.