EDS Campaign on Landscape Protection

New Zealand is a land of outstanding landscapes. Our small country contains rugged mountain ranges, spectacular glacial valleys and fiords, volcanic cones, wild rocky coastlines and sweeping sandy beaches, temperate rainforest, rolling pastoral farmland and more. Many of these areas have been modified since humans first inhabited the country. As New Zealanders we strongly identify with these landscapes; they help define who we are as a unique people. Landscapes also underpin our economy.  International tourists are encouraged to visit  '100% Pure New Zealand' and the country's 'clean and green' brand sells New Zealand products overseas.

Not surprisingly, these outstanding landscapes attract a lot of people. They may be international or domestic visitors who enjoy the landscapes only briefly, owners of holiday homes who seek a coastal or rural retreat, retirees, or permanent 'lifestyle' residents who choose to live on the fringes of urban areas and physically or electronically commute.

Those of our outstanding landscapes that are threatened by development are predominantly in private ownership. Somewhat surprisingly, given their importance to the country, New Zealand has no special provisions to ensure their protection. EDS is working hard to ensure that our outstanding landscapes receive better protection. To support our landscape campaign please click here.

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Frequently Asked Landscape Questions

This section provides brief information about landscapes, what they are, why they are important and how you can help protect them.