In recent years, there have been significant increases and rapid fluctuations in the numbers of New Zealanders and international visitors to public conservation areas, and changes in how visitors want to experience and connect with our natural, historic and cultural heritage on public conservation lands and waters.

National parks are a significant drawcard for New Zealanders and international visitors. In the year ending June 2019, 53% of all international visitors to New Zealand visited one or more national parks. From 2012 to 2018, the proportion of New Zealanders who visited a national park annually has increased from 37% to 43%.