Auckland’s regional parks have achieved an unprecedented milestone, marking the highest ever visitation numbers in the first three months of 2024, compared to the same period over previous years.
According to Auckland Council’s visitor data, regional parks across Tāmaki Makaurau were visited an estimated 2,579,033 times from 1 January to 31 March of this year.
Chair of the Planning, Environment and Parks Committee, Councillor Richard Hills said he was “stoked” with the latest parks visitor numbers.
“The record-breaking numbers of people visiting our regional parks show just how much Aucklanders and visitors to our city love to experience our stunning nature reserves, native bush and coastal areas,” said Cr Hills.
“These parks are a breath of fresh air, keeping us happy, healthy and connected to each other and our environment.
“A huge ‘ngā mihi’ to our hard-working Auckland Council rangers, wider parks teams and volunteers for making our regional parks a place where Aucklanders want to spend time and a home for our birds and native wildlife to thrive.”
Visitor data is collected using counters at park entry points and regional park rangers use a formula, that takes into account estimated passengers per car, to calculate average visitor numbers each month.
It’s not just Aucklanders who love these green spaces, the most recent State of the City 2023 report shows Auckland is ranked 9th in the world for the quality of its outdoor activities recommended by locals and visitors, thanks in part to its accessible outdoor locations and numerous green spaces.
Auckland Council Manager Regional Parks, Scott De Silva said he’s pleased the community is making the most of Auckland’s regional park network.
“It’s great to see so many people enjoying our regional parks – our Auckland Council parks team love to see people engaging with the great outdoors,” he said.
“To ensure the preservation of these parks for generations to come, we want to remind everyone to stick to the paths, take your rubbish home with you, check first if you are able to take your dog, and to be patient over the busy summer period.
“Regional parks like Long Bay and Tāwharanui were jam-packed over summer so we’d love to see people spread out to some of our other parks too. For a quieter and more relaxing time or a nice walk, try one of our farm parks like Ātiu Creek or Tāpapakanga regional parks – or one of our other amazing parks throughout Tāmaki Makaurau – you won’t regret it!”
Owned and managed by Auckland Council, there are 28 regional parks across Tāmaki Makaurau, covering more than 40,000 hectares.
