Hamilton Gardens is one of the first parks in New Zealand to earn the prestigious Green Flag Award for excellence and high standards in public parks.
Hamilton Mayor Julie Hardaker says the Green Flag Award emphasises the quality of one of Hamilton's finest attractions, and the hard work of agroup of committed staff and supporters.
"Hamilton Gardens is absolutely world-class: the themed gardens represent the story of our gardens, it hosts a range of wonderful events every year, and never fails to amaze visitors to our city," Mayor Hardaker says.
The Green Flag Awards, delivered through Australasia by the Parks Forum, recognise well-managed parks which strive to meet visitors' needs, retain important historic and cultural values and develop protection of native species and habitats. The first 12 to be awarded to Australasian parks were announced this week.
"We are very proud of the work that has gone in to Hamilton Gardens and we are delighted it has been recognised by the Parks Forum," says Mayor Hardaker.
Hamilton Gardens director Peter Sergel says the Green Flag Award is a significant achievement.
"Over the years, hundreds of people have contributed to Hamilton Gardens. For the gardens to be honoured in this way also honours their tireless work and passion."
Commenting, Parks Forum deputy chair Michael Ayrton, says: "There have been some outstanding organisations which have been assessed recently and for Hamilton Gardens to be awarded the Green Flag is high praise indeed. Hamilton Gardens scored particularly well on all counts and is a great asset for the people of the Waikato and further afield."
The Green Flag Award was presented to Hamilton Gardens at a special event this week. Key industry partners in New Zealand for the Green Flag Awards are the Department of Conservation and the New Zealand Recreation Association.
