News

Parks, Play and Open Spaces
Three people standing holding a Green Flag Award flag

26 parks and green spaces across New Zealand have today achieved Green Flag Award status, an international recognition of quality that highlights their recreational and environmental value. The Green Flag Award is a global mark of excellence, setting a high standard for parks and open spaces.

Awards
Auckland beach from above shows the sea and some hills

The recreation sector came together in Tāmaki Makaurau tonight for the Outdoors & Recreation Awards 2024.

Recreation Aotearoa
A green cover page of a report with some decorative designs and the copy Annual Impact Report 2023 / 2024

Our annual Impact Report is a great way for to share some of the mahi we've done, and for our members to learn more about our projects and fellow Recreation Aotearoa members.

Governance
An aerial shot of Due Drop Events Centre

The Recreation Aotearoa Annual General Meeting (AGM) will take place on 13 November 2024. The agenda includes Board elections, proposed constitutional changes, and a Life Membership nomination.

Aquatics
Two lifeguards stand looking into a pool. Copy reads Poolsafe Annual Report 2024

The Poolsafe® Annual Report 2024 has been published. Find a comprehensive snapshot of public pools across Aotearoa.

Aquatics
An image of Scott White, who is a Nelson lifeguard

Nayland Park Pool’s Scott White has been named Lifeguard of the Year at the Aquatics Awards 2024 tonight in Lower Hutt. 

Aquatics
Two men stand holding awards they have won in the Aquatics Awards 2024

Two Hawke’s Bay Aquatics Programmes were recognised tonight at the Recreation Aotearoa Aquatic Awards, held in Lower Hutt. The annual Aquatics Awards celebrate the people, places and programmes within the New Zealand aquatics industry.

Aquatics
Awards
Four people from Hamner Springs stand in front of a sign accepting an award

Hanmer Springs Thermal Pools and Spa’s Staff Wellness Programme has won the Aquatic Innovation – Operation Award at the Recreation Aotearoa Aquatic Awards, held tonight in Lower Hutt. The award recognises innovations that enhance the aquatics experience, streamline facility operations and/or contribute to the wider industry. 

Aquatics
A pool diving board with water below

Recreation Aotearoa is urging parents and caregivers to actively supervise their children in swimming pools after an increase in drowning deaths last year.

Parks, Play and Open Spaces
Partnership
Man standing at a playground making notes into a tablet

Parks Planning Masterclass Regional Events - September 2024

Recreation Aotearoa and Xyst have developed a Parks Planning Masterclass. The full day class is designed for both new and experienced parks planners, park managers, coordinators and anyone involved in the management and administration of reserves and open spaces.