We have 29 Green Flag Award® parks and open spaces in Aotearoa. Learn about Green Flag and find out how to get involved.
What is the Green Flag Award®?
The Green Flag Award® is an international mark of quality. It sets a benchmark for the management of parks and green spaces.
The kaupapa behind the Green Flag Award® is to:
- Ensure everyone has access to quality green and open spaces, regardless of where they live.
- Ensure these spaces are appropriately managed and meet the needs of their local communities.
- To establish good management standards, and to promote and share best practice.
- To recognise and reward the mahi of manager, staff and volunteers.
Download the Green Flag Award® guidelines
Who can apply for a Green Flag Award®?
Any green space that is freely accessible to the public and has a site-specific management plan is eligible to apply for a Green Flag Award®.
See our 2023 Green Flag Award® winners
How it works
The Green Flag Award® sets a standard across a range of criteria. Green Flag Judges assess parks and open spaces against those criteria.
Find out more about the Green Flag Award® criteria
Green Flag Award® fees
Green Flag Award® annual fees depend on the size of your park or open space.
- Up to 19.99 hectares: $1045 + GST
- 20.00 hectares and over: $1485 + GST
Benefits of winning a Green Flag Award®
Winning a Green Flag Award® shows you have met a global benchmark standard for park and open space management.
- Boosts tourism to your local area.
- Shows you have a good management plan for a safe and sustainable park or open space.
- Improving facilities at a park or open space can have a positive effect on the area, boost regeneration and reduce antisocial behaviour.
Hear from a Green Flag Award® winner – Horowhenua District Council
Show off your Green Flag Award®!
- Fly your Green Flag in your park or open space.
- Use Green Flag Award® logos on your marketing and collateral.
- Enjoy a dedicated page on the Green Flag Award® website. You’ll also be featured on our website and social media channels.
How to apply
Applications for the Green Flag Award® scheme are open until 29 April 2024.
More information
For more information on the application process, or if you’re interested in becoming a Green Flag Judge, email Kieran Smith: kierans@nzrecreation.org.nz.