Wednesday joy

Parks and public spaces

This Wednesday’s moment of joy is brought to you by the parks and public spaces our local Councils provide, administer, and maintain.

All New Zealand cities have green spaces where people can ramble, relax and enjoy themselves.

Green spaces are an important third space; when a city has third spaces for people for people to stroll in, loiter, or meet friends, the requirement for large houses for hosting/entertaining is less. Plus, third spaces give you a chance to meet locals - without the pressure of inviting anyone to your home.

Oldenburg describes third spaces as neutral ground: no one has to play host, and everyone is at ease:

“If there is no neutral ground in the neighbourhoods where people live, association outside the home will be impoverished … Many, perhaps most, neighbours will never meet, to say nothing of associate, for there is no place for them to do so.”

Hamilton City Council maintains around 1160ha of green open space. Days Park in Hamilton is our latest ramble, dog and child(ren) in tow. We’ve met some lovely dogs (and owners). It has been delightful, chatting to strangers about their dog - a welcome change from the intensity of political carnage currently wreaking havoc.

child and dog paddling in the shallows of the mighty Waikato Awa

Not only that, but a gentle stroll through the park and along the shores of the mighty Waikato does wonders for body and soul. The late afternoon weather in December is warm, the river shallows are gentle; it is just the tonic after a day spend in front of a computer.

Long may we all continue to enjoy our local parks and public green spaces.

Long may our waterways continue to be clean and safe.

Take care,

R