Our parks deserve a bravo

Some things are worth celebrating.

One of those is the abundance of parks and reserves in Wanganui. It is one of the many factors that give the city and region a reputation for lifestyle. Anywhere you live, clean green outdoor space is not too far away.

So it is not terribly surprising to see that the Wanganui parks have been ranked top out of 12 local authorities surveyed.

A bouquet to the hard-working people who keep these areas in such a fine state all year round. It is no easy task, and can be compounded by adverse weather conditions. It was only a couple of months ago there was widespread devastation but now, after an immense clean-up and restoration effort, there is little sign of the aftermath of the March storm.

That people in Wanganui are so satisfied with the parks is also reflected in the level of use. And excellent, accessible parks mean people will get out enjoying them, which makes for a happier, healthier lifestyle and yet another reason to enjoy living here. It reinforces the city's reputation as a family friendly environment.

And, as infrastructure and property committee chairman Ray Stevens says, that is worth celebrating.

But while we celebrate, we should also pause to give thanks to the visionaries who gave us such outstanding facilities and open green spaces like Kowhai Park, Virginia Lake, Bason Botanical reserve and the many others dotted around the city.

Without their vision and hard work, we would not have the great assets we now have to maintain and enjoy.

Many visitors to our region marvel at the wondrous parks and reserves, which make a lasting impression.

So, to those responsible, well done, we appreciate your hard work. And if you haven't visited one of our parks or reserves in a while, why not make the effort today - the weather forecast looks great, and I can't think of a better way to celebrate our parks than by using them.

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