Anecological area is a type of New Zealand protected area. They are usually large (1,000 to 5,000 hectares) and usually feature the main ecosystems of a defined ecological district.[1] There are currently 57 recognised ecological areas in New Zealand.[2]
Like sanctuary areas, most ecological areas were set aside by the now defunct New Zealand Forest Service in the 1970s and 1980s in response to activism by the conservationist movement.[1] Historically, ecological areas have mostly been in Southland and the West Coast of the South Island, and the Bay of Plenty Region of the North Island.[1]
Ecological areas are usually accessible to the general public, but dogs are prohibited.[1]
