Botanic Gardens Week 2026 celebrates the health and wellbeing benefits of botanic gardens and arboreta, recognising the now undeniable truth that nature is medicine.
This May, visit Auckland Botanic Gardens and experience the proven benefits first-hand with our Green Prescription Trail.
Botanic gardens are uniquely placed to support health and wellbeing because they:
- provide accessible spaces
- promote physical activity
- restore mental health
- foster social connection
- strengthen our bond with nature.
All of which are proven to increase overall wellbeing.
A growing body of research shows that spending time in nature measurably improves human health. Studies demonstrate that even a 20-30 minute walk in a green space can:
- lower cortisol levels
- reduce blood pressure
- improve mood
- boost cognitive performance.
From Japan’s 'shinrin-yoku' (forest bathing) research to UK public health trials, it’s shown that immersive plant-rich environments help:
- decrease anxiety
- restore attention
- enhance creativity
- improve recovery outcomes for people living with chronic illness.
Australian research echoes this, confirming that access to green spaces is associated with reduced psychological distress and improved mental wellbeing.