Open Access Te Herenga Waka-Victoria University of Wellington
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How does the public benefit from green space?

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thesis
posted on 2021-12-08, 02:42 authored by Gyde, Elaine

Research shows that urban green spaces are a straightforward way for many people to interact with nature. This interaction provides physical and mental health benefits, provides us with a range of ecosystems services, and fosters a unique sense of place. In a central city park we experience shared public space where we navigate social and cultural norms and adjust our behaviour.  This research uses third place as a framework for examining the benefits of shared public space. Ray Oldenburg developed third place to describe the importance of places where informal social interactions occur. Cafes, libraries and pubs all form key social hubs for local communities. This thesis examines the extent to which green spaces in Wellington’s central city area provide third place.  This research conducted a survey of the public in three central city parks in Wellington and long interviews with key stakeholders from inside and outside the Wellington City Council (the Council). Results show how the public use and value green spaces and examines the Council’s role as the authority of these urban green spaces. As the urban population rises, the availability and quality of green space in the central city will become a challenge for the Council. These research findings can be used to address this challenge.  Design solutions, community engagement, and activation, can reduce barriers to green space, like accessibility. Without these barriers, more people experience the benefits of green spaces and our public parks become places where people relax, socialise, and enjoy their time.

History

Copyright Date

2019-01-01

Date of Award

2019-01-01

Publisher

Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington

Rights License

Author Retains Copyright

Degree Discipline

Environmental Studies

Degree Grantor

Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington

Degree Level

Masters

Degree Name

Master of Environmental Studies

ANZSRC Type Of Activity code

1 PURE BASIC RESEARCH

Victoria University of Wellington Item Type

Awarded Research Masters Thesis

Language

en_NZ

Victoria University of Wellington School

School of Geography, Environment and Earth Sciences

Advisors

Kiddle, Rebecca; Chapman, Ralph