Inequalities in urban green space distribution across priority population groups: Evidence from Tāmaki Makaurau Auckland, Aotearoa New Zealand

Abstract

Growing evidence has shown that urban green space (UGS) in neighbourhoods can substantially enhance residents' well-being. This study focuses on the possible inequitable UGS distribution among priority population groups of city-dwellers in the region of Tāmaki Makaurau, Aotearoa New Zealand. UGS availability was calculated using coverage ratio of service area and Overlap/cumulative opportunity. UGS accessibility was measured using Gaussian-based two-step floating catchment area. Bivariate analysis, spatial regression, ordinary least squares estimation, and Moran's I were employed to explore the potential inequality between UGS distribution and priority population groups. The results revealed that most deprived neighbourhoods tended to have more UGS availability but less accessibility. Children, adolescents and elderly were likely to have less potential opportunity to choose different UGS to visit. Areas with a higher proportion of Māori had less UGS availability and Pacific populations had less accessibility. Neighbourhoods with a higher proportion of Asian people had more UGS availability but less accessibility. This study adds new evidence to UGS inequality in priority population groups by contributing a regional investigation in a developed country. The results can inform policy makers and planners on where and how to implement UGS and on which groups to focus on to prevent further disparities.