Family leisure in the form of outdoor recreation has received limited attention by researchers. This study used a qualitative, whole-family research approach to provide increase understanding of the complexities of family life with regards to outdoor recreation. The specific purpose of the research was to “examine outdoor recreation participation from the perspective of the family, and place this in the context of how management initiatives can hinder or foster participation in outdoor recreation spaces in New Zealand.” In-depth interviews were conducted with twenty-two families and ten park managers from two major cities in the country.
The study results support previous research that suggests that a lack of free time, financial resources, and access to outdoor leisure spaces are major barriers to family time spent recreating in natural areas. The findings of this study also support the need for outdoor recreation opportunities to be actively promoted to families in order effectively get youth into nature in a time where screen-based activities are a significant and growing focus of their leisure time. Based on study data, the researchers call for park and recreation departments to actively focus on the ways they can effectively increase family attendance at the natural areas they manage. For example, allocating resources to plan, implement and actively promote activities for families in natural areas is seen as paramount.
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