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The School of Landscape Architecture at Lincoln University bases its teaching and research on the coastal areas, urban centres, townships, agricultural lands and mountains of the South Island.
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Publication Open Access Monuments and public spaces: Questions of equity, inclusivity and justice: An investigation into three Latin American case studies : A thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy at Lincoln University(Lincoln University, 2024) Walker, YeimyResponses to inequality, violence, war, genocide, injustice, and trauma take many forms in the built environment. Contemporary conversations around statues and monuments in public spaces have renewed a conversation about the power of the past. This research explores recent responses to monuments that embrace colonial and historical narratives in Latin American public spaces, highlighting their significance for social justice and equity in the field of landscape architecture. Through three case studies, the thesis features diverse responses to historical narratives embedded in monuments, focusing on acts of reclamation, resignification, and recontextualisation. The equestrian Sebastian de Belalcázar monument in Popayán, Colombia, has become a symbol of Spanish oppression of Indigenous people. The Isabela La Católica monument in La Paz, Bolivia, raises concerns about discrimination against native women. Finally, the equestrian monument of General Manuel Jesús Baquedano González in Santiago de Chile symbolises the repression of Indigenous people by the Chilean elite. On-site responses, such as removal, dressing, and graffiti, provide insights into how communities actively engage with and contest dominant narratives. Methodologically, the research employs a case study approach, incorporating online interviews with three key stakeholder groups: public officials, activists/Indigenous leaders, and designers/academics. Social media data, primarily from activists and community participants, further enriches interpretations of each case study by exploring a range of design proposals and on-site responses. This study makes a unique contribution to the academic discourse on the intersection of monuments, public spaces, and landscape architecture. By recognising the contested nature of these sites, landscape architects can actively contribute to the creation of inclusive and reflective environments, prioritising principles of equity and justice. The study emphasises the crucial role that landscape architecture can play in amplifying marginalised voices and fostering dialogue regarding colonial narratives. By doing so, it can create opportunities for diverse interpretations of the past, promote inclusivity, and raise awareness about the implications of colonial histories in the present. Importantly, this research introduces its findings to the English-speaking world, bridging gaps in understanding and enriching global conversations on the subject. In conclusion, this research represents a call for action on reimagining the role of monuments in public spaces. By reassessing their historical significance and embracing diverse perspectives, the field of landscape architecture can pave the way for more equitable and inclusive commemorative designs, acknowledging the complexities inherent in our shared history.Publication Open Access Measuring landscape performance: Context, mechanisms, strategies, approaches, and theories : A thesis submitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy at Lincoln University(Lincoln University, 2024) Chen, Guanyu (Hanley)This research explores various dimensions of Landscape Performance Evaluation (LPE), including its practice context, mechanism, evaluation strategies, approaches, and theories. This study firstly traces the evolution of the evaluation practices in the field of environmental design disciplines from its architectural roots to its integration into landscape architecture, and from its original form of Post-Occupancy Evaluation (POE) to LPE. The challenges arising from ambiguous interpretations and interdisciplinary differences in POE conceptualisation are identified. The study advocates for specificity and clarity in approaching the concept of POE. The research then extends its focus to the New Zealand environmental design and planning context, collecting and analysing a representative range of evaluation cases to unveil barriers and enablers in performance evaluation implementation. This study emphasises the essential role of effective regulating and supporting mechanisms in ensuring balanced resulting benefits relative to costs for all involved parties. Subsequently, the methodological terrain of LPE practices in New Zealand is mapped, proposing a categorising framework for the evaluation models and approaches, and revealing associations between funding sources, evaluator types, and evaluation outcomes. The first New Zealand-based Landscape Performance Evaluation (LPS) Case Study Investigation (CSI) consists of a part of this doctoral research. The CSI evaluation is explored, reflecting from the evaluators' perspectives, challenging the dichotomies in methodological categorisation, and advocating for a universal currency for benefit measurement. This research then introduces the hedonic model approach, quantifying intangible landscape benefits, and demonstrating the potential for using monetary value to measure the value of landscapes and thereby providing evidence for decision-making processes. An economic perspective is applied to conceptualise the current challenges in understanding and communicating landscape benefits, drawing parallels between the market for "lemons" and the landscape architecture industry. LPE emerges as a potent countermeasure to information asymmetry and a lack of information, potentially mitigating negative impacts on the industry. By encapsulating a multidimensional exploration that weaves together context, mechanisms, strategies, approaches, and theories of landscape performance evaluation, this research aims to guide future scholars, practitioners, and decision-makers in navigating LPE explorations, thereby contributing to the enhancement of the built environment and human well-being.Publication Open Access How can landscape architecture create living environments that promote access to public transport, housing, and green spaces : A dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of Landscape Architecture at Lincoln University(Lincoln University, 2024) Koch, DominicThis study seeks to understand how to address thematic social justice issues through spatial design using landscape architecture. More specifically, whether, how and to what extent different city municipalities address resident accessibility issues relating to Social (or Affordable housing), Green Space and Public Transport through design? To understand how these thematic issues are addressed through design, city design guidelines will be critically analysed specific to these themes. The city design guidelines of Wellington, Christchurch and Amsterdam will be used for this study. Findings will inform models of proposed land use types and extent in Tauranga City to create equitable outcomes for all its residents.Publication Open Access The role of landscape architecture at public open-air rock art sites - case studies in Canterbury, Aotearoa New Zealand : A dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of Landscape Architecture at Lincoln University(Lincoln University, 2024) Smart, GwenRock art is a valuable and vulnerable taonga | treasure both in Aotearoa New Zealand and internationally. The theory and practice of landscape architecture and rock art conservation and management hold many of the same values and concerns. However, very little research addresses the specific overlap between these fields. From the literature, it is difficult to gain an idea of the reality of the situation: what role do landscape architects have in the conservation and management of open-air rock art sites? This dissertation aims to explore the overlap between these fields from a landscape architectural perspective and to begin to bridge this gap in the literature. While the international context of rock art conservation and management informs this project, its focus is on a specific subject and geographic area: publicly accessible open-air Māori rock art sites of Waitaha | Canterbury in Aotearoa New Zealand. This allows for a detailed and context specific investigation. A novel, holistic, hybrid methodology was developed and applied. This included a specialist interview with Amanda Symon, Trustee of the Ngāi Tahu Māori Rock Art Trust, a multiple case study protocol, including the development and application of a case study framework, and the hybrid, critical discussion of the resultant findings. The research demonstrates that landscape architects have had a limited role at public, open-air rock art sites in Waitaha | Canterbury, but that there are many avenues by which landscape architecture may be able to make a contribution to the conservation and management of such sites, as part of a transdisciplinary, tangata whenua led team. These may include responding to the unique risks and opportunities these sites present, finding visitor management solutions, potential involvement in landscape assessment for planning or legislative purposes, facilitating transdisciplinary research or development, and the possibility of mutually beneficial educational and research relationships between rock art conservation and management and landscape architecture institutions. This dissertation has a specific regional focus on Waitaha| Canterbury’s historical, cultural, and environmental context. This research, however, is nested within the global context, and many of the topics addressed, methods discussed, questions raised, and further research opportunities proposed could be adapted to be more broadly applicable.Publication Open Access Evaluating indigenous forest restoration design strategies in support of biodiversity and pastoral farmers in marginal hill country, Aotearoa New Zealand : A dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of Landscape Architecture. at Lincoln University(Lincoln University, 2024) Christian-Farrow, EllaStrategically reforesting marginal hill country with indigenous forest is a recognised way to aid in decelerating and reversing the dual climate and biodiversity crisis in Aotearoa New Zealand, with the potential to provide income to farmers simultaneously. Farm owners are needed to assist in reforestation if it is to occur on a significant scale; however, there is a need for further contributions about what spatial reforestation strategies are effective in concurrently meeting biodiversity and farm owner requirements on marginal hill country land. A narrative literature review was conducted to identify bush bird, lizard and insect wildlife guild and farm owner requirements to establish evaluation criteria. Wildlife guilds require appropriate spatial configurations of habitat size, connectivity and resources. Farm owners require restoration strategies that are low cost, easy to implement, easy to maintain, and timely (particularly to generate income through carbon sequestration under the New Zealand Emissions Trading Scheme (NZ ETS)). Attributes that lead to these restoration outcomes were also identified as important in evaluating and defining strategy effectiveness measures. These criteria were then applied through a literature review to critically evaluate the effectiveness of existing hill country restoration establishment methods and spatial configuration strategies New Zealand wide. The results indicate that none of the existing strategies meet all criteria for a high level of effectiveness. A third narrative literature review identified design solutions to create an improved strategy through the realm of landscape ecology and landscape networks. The novel hill country restoration strategy was designed by combining principles of the patch-corridor-matrix theory, spatial eligibility criteria for the ETS and strengths of existing strategies. When analysed using the evaluation criteria, the novel strategy met all criteria effectively. However, only biodiversity interaction and ability to receive NZUs criteria were met to high effectiveness, with the cost of establishment, ease of establishment and cost/ease of maintenance only being averagely effective. These results indicate there is a substantial need for improvement of policy and development of on-the-ground restoration strategies, to assist both farm owners and resulting biodiversity in restoring marginal hill country land, in answer to the increasingly urgent dual biodiversity and climate crises we are facing.Publication Open Access Conflicted property rights – balancing the need for seismic safety with heritage conservation : A thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy at Lincoln University(Lincoln University, 2023) Nahkies, Peter BrentTraditionally described as a “bundle of rights” the creation and protection of private property rights is seen as a cornerstone of western democratic societies. However, property rights are not fixed but are a constantly evolving mix of private rights and community rights that ebb and flow with changing community expectations. As a result of the Christchurch earthquakes increased community expectations of seismic safety led to the passing of new legislation imposing mandatory seismic mitigation for buildings considered an unacceptable risk to society. These buildings are defined legally as “earthquake-prone”. The costs of seismic mitigation must be met by the property owner potentially causing significant financial hardship to the individual, but also with the potential to have significant negative impacts on communities. One form of mitigation promoted by the legislation is to demolish the building which puts the owner of an earthquake-prone building with heritage value in conflict with community expectations of heritage conservation. This conflict often leads to litigation with an owner demanding the right to demolish while the community pursues the retention of the heritage building. The results of the litigation are uncertain and often costly. This thesis looks at altering property rights in New Zealand in order to avoid litigation and achieve a more equitable balance between private and public rights and thus achieve a better balance between safety, heritage and property rights. This rebalancing is necessary to protect individuals from financial hardship. It is also necessary to achieve better outcomes for communities by protecting them from the unexpected outcomes of the new legislation and by promoting sustainability by reducing building demolition and instead facilitating heritage-led urban regeneration.Item Open Access Feeling and interpreting the changing streetscape: Capturing experiences of urban atmospheres in Cuba Street, Wellington(Elsevier, 2024-08) Wesener, AndreasDrawing on fieldwork in Cuba Street, Wellington (New Zealand), the paper contributes to the emergent body of empirical qualitative studies on urban atmospheres. It explores sensory experiences in a central urban streetscape setting focussing on individual feelings and interpretations of study participants expressed through field descriptions and sketches. The findings reveal a variety of atmospheric accounts and perceptual amalgamations that kept changing while participants walked through particular spatial situations. The study discusses the influence of the built environment, the role of movement, and the notion of ‘dominant’ urban atmospheres. Spatial and architectural arrangements as much as participants’ movement had a significant influence on their feelings and interpretations. The paper identifies ‘atmospheric zones’ that influenced study participants’ moods while walking through them. However, while related descriptions reveal similar atmospheric accounts, not all participants shared the same experiences. Experiential descriptions were diverse, sometimes contradicting, and did not always add up to a conclusive urban atmosphere. Findings challenge the notion of ‘dominant’ urban atmospheres and encourage atmospheric analysis that is inclusive of multiple experiential accounts and based on diverse first-person perspectives.Publication Open Access Investigate feasibility of utilising a neural-networked set of inertial measurement units to compensate for variations in motion of a commercial radio-controlled vehicle in a dryland agricultural context : A thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of Applied Science at Lincoln University(Lincoln University, 2023) Davidson, BrettImage stabilisation is desired for efficient identification of objects in the path of a self-driving vehicle. The gyroscope and accelerometer of an inertial measurement unit (IMU) can be used to derive the movement of a vehicle, which can then be used by a rotation matrix to compensate for this movement, but a gyroscope has inherent “drift” errors, and while the accelerometer of an IMU is more accurate, it has a slower response time, which reduces the detection rate. Various methods have been proposed to compensate for these sensor limitations. Kalman filters are often used in industry to fuse gyroscope and accelerometer data to reduce the effects of drift, noise, and other gaussian-based errors but these are computationally intensive for the sort of lightweight processor that a radio-controlled car could be expected to power. A complementary filter such as Madgwick’s is a simpler and less processor-intensive solution with claims that the method is just as accurate. Both of these approaches are applied on a single IMU. Averaging multiple IMUs has been investigated and offers slight improvements. Well-trained neural networks also offer IMU compensation but are computationally and time expensive to train to generate a model however the application of previously-trained models is less intensive and is becoming common as processor power improves. There have been no investigations of using a neural network on multiple IMUs as of this time. This project investigates if using a neural network of multiple IMUs reduces errors and enhances performance compared to a single IMU. The Kalman filter is used as baseline control data and three neural network models (MLP, NARXNET and RBF) are compared against each other and a Madgwick complementary filter to investigate if using a neural network of multiple IMUs reduces errors and enhances performance compared to a single IMU in the context of establishing Euler angles of roll and pitch movement to stabilise a video feed of a consumer-level camera on a moving commercial off-the-shelf radio control vehicle. It is demonstrated that there is no statistically significant advantage in using multiple IMUs if these are kept in the same horizontal plane, that a minimum of a three-layer MATLAB NARXNET filter provides the equivalent accuracy of a Kalman filter with similar processing times, and that the Madgwick IECF6 complimentary filter, the radial basis factor neural network and multi-level perceptron neural network models are not fit for this purpose.Item Open Access Peri-urban landscapes and the potential of integrated foodscapes to support healthy cities: An Aotearoa New Zealand case study(Taylor and Francis Group, 2024) Davis, Shannon; Chen, G; Darvill, N; Robinson, MarcusAotearoa New Zealand is experiencing unprecedented competition in land use priorities on the edges of its cities and settlements–referred to as the peri-urban zone. Housing and food production compete with one another in a legislative planning context that supports a dichotomy of urban or rural land use. Food production is being driven further away from urban settlements, where 85% of New Zealanders live, as demand for housing increases, and land is re-zoned from rural to urban. Consequently, cities and settlements within Aotearoa New Zealand are increasingly seen to be spatially disconnected from their productive hinterlands. The resulting land use polarity occurring in the peri-urban zone is problematic for local food production, driving issues of agricultural land fragmentation, the loss of highly productive soils, ‘reverse sensitivity’, and impacts on human health and wellbeing. Engaging with both residents and food producers who reside and work within the peri-urban zone, this research applies a ‘design thinking’ methodology to the case study site of Ōtautahi Christchurch, exploring the question, ‘how can food production and housing best co-exist at the edges of Aotearoa New Zealand’s cities and settlements?’ to support human health and wellbeing outcomes. This paper presents five participant-driven future land use scenarios, which were developed based on survey responses collected from both peri-urban residents and food producers. The land use scenarios were then tested in a workshop setting with both groups assessing the potential of each scenario to address the land use conundrum that Aotearoa New Zealand peri-urban areas are currently facing, ultimately identifying land use strategies for healthier city areas that are designed for both housing and local food production.Item Open Access An analysis of the recent fire regimes in the Angolan catchment of the Okavango Delta, Central Africa(SpringerOpen, 2022) van Wilgen, B. W.; De Klerk, Helen M.; Stellmes, M,; Archibald, S,Background: This paper presents an analysis of fire regimes in the poorly studied Angolan catchment of the Okavango Delta in Botswana. We used MODIS data to examine the frequency and seasonality of fires over 20 years (from 2000 to 2020) in three dominant vegetation types (miombo woodlands, open woodlands and grasslands, and short closed to open bushlands), and in areas where people were present, and where they were absent. Results: The median fire return intervals for both open woodlands and grasslands and short bushlands were relatively short (1.9 and 2.2 years respectively). In miombo woodlands, fires were less frequent (median return periods of 4.5 years). Human population density had no discernible effect on the fire return intervals, but about 14% of the miombo woodlands experienced no fires over 20 years. Ongoing shifting cultivation within miombo woodlands has led to structural changes and the introduction of fire into this vegetation type where fires were rare or absent in the past. About 12% of the miombo did not burn during the period examined where people were present, whereas close to 20% of the sites remained unburnt where people were absent. This suggests that people did not change the fire return interval in any of the vegetation types studied, but that they altered the amount of the landscape that is flammable in miombo vegetation. Fires occurred between June and September, with a peak in the late dry season (August and September). Conclusions: Historical research indicates that late dry-season fires are detrimental to miombo woodlands, and our analysis suggests that degradation in parts of the catchment has led to the introduction of fire to this previously fire-free and fire-sensitive vegetation type. Deforestation of miombo woodlands, and the consequent introduction of fire, is a cause for concern with respect to the ecological stability of the Okavango Delta. Managers should therefore aim to protect the remaining closed-canopy miombo stands from further clearing and to attempt to shift the timing of burns to the early dry season to reduce their intensity.Publication Open Access Adaptive flood mitigation planning: Harnessing the maximum capability of strategic green stormwater infrastructure(School of Landscape Architecture, Lincoln University, Canterbury, NZ, 2024) Muangsri, S; McWilliam, Wendy; Lawson, GillianFlooding in low-lying coastal cities is expected to worsen with climate change, and planning for long-term flood mitigation is challenging due to high uncertainty in projections. Risks are associated with under- or over-investment in expensive grey infrastructure. Implementing green stormwater infrastructure (GSI) on strategically large private properties may be a lower-risk alternative. In our previous studies published in 2022 and 2024, we found that the capability of industrial properties to supplement city flood mitigation was substantial. They could offset climate change impacts in the long term, even under a major climate change scenario, and reduce flood probabilities. In this paper, we restate their potential as a case study of large private properties to draw more attention from practitioners and transfer scientific knowledge into practice. The maximum flood mitigation capabilities of large private properties can be met through networks of GSI facilities and a long-term adaptation plan that considers all possible approaches to implementing GSI over time. However, government regulations and policies are needed to support their implementation to the maximum capabilities.Publication Open Access Evaluation of an incentive programme for increasing green infrastructure on vineyards(MDPI, 2023-09) Goodall, A-K; McWilliam, Wendy; Meurk, C; Schelezki, Olaf; Muangsri, SWine grape ecosystems with low species richness and reliance on agrichemicals have weak resilience to environmental impacts. Increasing biodiversity through green infrastructure (GI) not only helps mitigate some of these impacts but can provide additional benefits to growers and the public. Despite this, many vineyards have limited GI. While scholars suggest incentive programmes may help to encourage GI implementation, few studies have evaluated their effectiveness. We surveyed winegrowers and their vineyards in the Waipara Valley sub-region, New Zealand, to evaluate an incentive programme aimed at increasing GI on vineyards, particularly indigenous vegetation. The results indicated the programme was effective in encouraging growers to plant indigenous plants in areas incapable or unsuitable for growing grapes, largely in support of nature conservation, aesthetics, branding, and sales. It was less successful in encouraging growers to plant them in productive areas. While substantial GI, primarily in the form of inter-row cover crops, was managed in these areas, most were exotic plants seen by growers to provide superior services (especially erosion control, weed suppression and pest regulation) at lower management complexity and cost. Growers identified six GI enablers: (1) promoting GI types that provide greater grower services than disservices and costs of implementation and management; (2) implementing GI where biophysical conditions support success; (3) providing assistance with plant selection and design; (4) providing GI implementation and/or management funding; (5) developing GI certification policies and regional association programmes; and (6) providing government GI regulations, strategies, and incentives. They also identified five barriers: (1) insufficient grower appreciation for indigenous GI services; (2) grower concerns that some GI disservices were greater than their services; (3) grower belief that costs of GI implementation and/or management were greater than those of alternative practices; (4) harsh and remote GI growing conditions; (5) lack of grower knowledge regarding how to design plantings, especially those that could provide multiple services; and (6) lack of sufficient financial resources for GI implementation and/or management. Twenty recommendations for improving GI implementation are provided.Publication Open Access Urban comfort and adaptive capacity: An exploratory study of urban life and climate responses in Aachen, Germany(Taylor and Francis Ltd., 2024-04-09) Tavares, SG; Wesener, Andreas; Fox-Kämper, R; Krebs, LIn outdoor spaces, people can adapt to urban microclimates even if they are outside comfortable standards. This adaptation needs to be triggered by external motivators – enjoying the city, seeing people, meeting friends, and so forth – and these motivators are culture and place dependent. Relationships between socio-cultural values and adaptation to urban microclimate can inform design to promote adaptive capacity, enhance liveability, and improve climate change adaptation. We use the urban comfort concept, which considers human comfort in open spaces as a result of regional identity and local culture; lifestyle, liveability, and urbanity; and adaptation to microclimate. This study adds to the body of emerging case studies by exploring the local meaning of urban comfort in Aachen (Germany), a multi-cultural city. A mixed-method interpretive research design enhances the understanding of meaning and context. Results suggest that urban comfort is associated with (1) regional identity related to local physical and social landscapes; (2) urban lifestyles, liveability and urbanity concepts associated with compact urban living, public green areas, building design and diversity; (3) adaptive strategies associated with mobility, clothing, and company. We argue that the role these preferences play in place-based adaptation is fundamental for urban sustainability and climate change.Publication Open Access Exploring the design thinking methodology to stimulate alternative approaches in peri-urban landscape planning(School of Landscape Architecture, Lincoln University, 2024-04-18) Davis, Shannon; Charters, Stuart; Chen, G; Gregorini, PabloPeri-urban areas are vitally important to the function and value of our communities, our environment, and the economy. They often epitomise the relationship between a community and the landscape, providing essential eco-system services for the receiving settlement. With the expansion of cities and the resulting urban sprawl, the ability of peri-urban zones to sustain food provision is threatened in Aotearoa New Zealand. This study reports and reflects on a workshop facilitated by the Centre of Excellence: Designing Future Productive Landscapes, Te Whare Wānaka o Aoraki | Lincoln University, with the Canterbury Mayoral Forum, to explore alternative land use topologies for the peri-urban areas of Waitaha | Canterbury region. The focus of this paper is on the application of a ‘design-thinking methodology’, to explore this issue, and the opportunities for engagement and solution ideation that it promoted. Workshop participants were engaged in three activities designed to provoke alternative and innovative thinking about the spatial relationship between urban growth (housing) and agricultural land (production). Key findings illustrate the strengths of the methodology to elicit alternative responses to land use within the peri-urban zone, with results indicating a desire to rethink how we plan and design the edges of cities to better protect and enhance their ability to produce food and support other essential eco-system services alongside urban expansion.Publication Open Access Supply-demand measurement and spatial allocation of Sponge facilities for Sponge city construction(Elsevier, 2023-04) Wang, M; Yuan, H; Zhang, D; Qi, Jinda; Rao, Q; Li, J; Keat Tan, SSponge City Construction (SCC) has been extensively explored for controlling frequent urban waterlogging and non-point source pollution. Assessing the “supply” and “demand” of SCC as a city-wide approach may aid in appropriate areal coverage to achieve optimal performance on flood control based on local priorities and sustainable urban development plans. However, to date, very few studies have examined the potential spatial mismatches in the “supply” and “demand” of SCC. This study presented the development of a framework to explore the supply–demand relationship based on a spatial multi-criteria evaluation of the existing SCC facilities, risk exposure, and socio-economic vulnerability. The feasibility and application of such a framework were successfully demonstrated in a field application in Guangzhou, China. The results indicated that most of the high-density areas in the city centres of Guangzhou were exposed to high risk with strong SCC demands. Furthermore, Liwan and Yuexiu districts exhibited SCC supply deficits, while SCC supply surpluses were observed in other central districts in Guangzhou. The findings of this study provided insight into the development of a generalised and replicable method that could be used to achieve a balance between the “supply” and “demand” of SCC for more participatory, strategic and multifunctional planning of SCC in various urban contexts.Publication Open Access Soulscapes: An exploration of the relationship between wilderness landscapes and Soul wellbeing : A dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of Landscape Architecture at Lincoln University(Lincoln University, 2023) Hansen, ErikaThe idea that wilderness landscapes can facilitate connection to Soul has been recognised by scholars in various disciplines. There is also a longstanding history of ancient cultural practices that utilise the therapeutic elements of nature in natural landscapes to support and sustain spiritual wellbeing. As in theoretical perspectives such as the biophilia hypothesis, human biology requires direct connection with the natural environment. However, recent generations have seen urbanisation and technological advancements sever connections between many people and the natural world. Consequently, the contemporary societal issue ‘nature deficit disorder’ is a sign of the times. In response, this research explores the relationship between wilderness, traditional practices facilitated by the landscape, and the wellbeing of Soul in a secular sense. An interdisciplinary review of the literature identified key themes associated with the pursuit of Soul wellbeing, including Soul work, wilderness spirituality, sublime landscapes, transcendent experiences, social connection and solitude, classical elements, genius loci, aspects of pilgrimage, and thermal conditioning practices: cold immersion and sauna. These themes were threaded together and grounded in the practical context with case studies of international and Aotearoa New Zealand based expeditions and retreats that offer aspects of these topics. At the intersection of many schools of thought identified in this research lies a particular type of experiential landscape that facilitates Soul wellbeing, which I have termed ‘Soulscape’. The research findings suggest that a Soulscape is a sublime wilderness landscape that provides a setting for Soul work practices that seek to reconnect people with nature and their true nature. This research may be thought of as a pilgrimage towards the discovery of, ‘what is a Soulscape?’ which illuminates the significance and relevance of Soul wellbeing to the realm of landscape architecture.Publication Open Access How can the design of wineries support wellbeing? A study of wineries in Waipara, Aotearoa New Zealand : A thesis submitted in fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Master of Landscape Architecture at Lincoln University(Lincoln University, 2023) Goh, Jiang Han JeremyWine and food share important connections to the landscape, and these connections are increasingly being recognised as important to wellbeing. Farmers’ markets and locally focused food menus, alongside the heightened awareness of the value of being in landscape settings, exemplify the significance of opportunities to enjoy the fruits of the earth within the landscape that produced them. However, while there is an established understanding of the connections between nature and wellbeing, and a growing number of studies of gastronomical aspects of the food-landscape relationship, there is little research on how wineries might also offer wellbeing benefits. Locating and identifying patterns of how wineries are designed can offer insight into the place-specific experiences that are encouraged within wineries, the activities provided and how future wineries may be designed to support wellbeing. The goal of this research is to determine how wineries as places - including their location, design, and activities - support wellbeing. A two-phase process was used to identify potential winery cases across Aotearoa New Zealand, followed by a detailed selection based on their landscape, spatial settings, and location. Then from the samples identified, wineries with similar activities were selected and compared based on their landscape and spatial settings. Using a Mash-Up approach, categories and qualities were extracted from parallel studies of institutions known to support wellbeing such as hospitals, schools, and universities. The categories of Vegetation and Nature; Social; Environmental Control; Inclusivity; Spatial; and Multi-Sensory were identified from the parallel studies. Two additional categories were identified at the case study sites, they are: Animals and Time. Field work involved on-site inventorying at the four sites, using the categories derived from the parallel studies. Lastly, a normative critique of the case study sites was conducted that identified a wide range of landscape elements that echo those from the parallel studies, and indicate that wineries - like schools, hospitals, and universities - have a role to play in supporting wellbeing. This research identifies valuable insights into how wineries offer restorative environments and this in turn can inform other settings, such as those from the parallel studies.Publication Open Access Integrating landscape character assessment with community values in a scenic evaluation methodology for regional landscape planning(MDPI AG, 2024-02) Tara, A; Lawson, Gillian; Davies, W; Chenoweth, A; Pratten, GThe Landscape Character Assessment (LCA) method from the UK has proven effective in identifying landscape values and characteristics through a comprehensive mapping process. However, it is predominantly expert-led and lacks an evaluation of scenery, hindering the inclusion of the broader community’s preferences and visual attachment to their landscape. In Australia, the application of the Scenic Amenity Methodology (SAM) using Geographical Information System (GIS) mapping has engaged communities but has often overlooked the importance of landscape character. To overcome these limitations, this study presents an innovative scenic assessment methodology, referred to as modified Scenic Amenity Methodology (modified SAM). The methodology establishes landscape character types (LCTs) to map scenic preference ratings derived from community photo surveys. Simultaneously, it incorporates the visual exposure of the landscape from publicly accessible viewpoints, modelled using a Digital Elevation Model (DEM). The combination of scenic preferences and visual exposure enables mapping of the scenic amenity values held by the community. This methodology was first trialled in Bundaberg, then Cairns, the Whitsunday Islands, and, most recently, Toowoomba in Queensland, Australia. This paper presents the results of the Toowoomba study and reports on the challenges and limitations of informing landscape character type (LCT) values through a public photo survey, developing a scenic preference map from ratings of photos across a region, a map of the visual exposure of landscape elements from key public viewing locations, and, ultimately, a map of scenic amenity values across the Toowoomba Region. It indicates that integrating previous LCA approaches with public participation through community preferences is indeed feasible for regional landscape planning.Publication Open Access Peri-urban landscapes: Rethinking the land around cities for housing + food production(Our Land and Water, 2023) Davis, ShannonRethinking the land around cities can tackle both our food and housing crises. This webinar will share research showing that we could improve our food, housing and wellbeing all at the same time by making the fertile whenua surrounding our cities more productive in sustainable ways. As Aotearoa’s population grows, food and housing are currently ‘competing’ with each other for land space – with the urban sprawl of expanding cities eating up the best lands for food production. Instead, we could design differently to provide both areas for local food production and new housing. The purpose of this webinar is to help decision makers, such as local councils and town planners, think outside of ‘business as usual’ when it comes to providing food and housing. By making different choices for how we use the fertile whenua surrounding our cities, the research shows we can benefit both urban and rural communities simultaneously, including Māori communities. Speaker: Shannon Davis Shannon is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Landscape Architecture, Te Whare Wānaka o Aoraki | Lincoln University. Also a research leader within the Centre of Excellence: Designing Future Productive Landscapes, her research focuses on urban and peri-urban agriculture, and landscape planning.Publication Open Access Role of existing industrial land in providing supplemental flood mitigation for low-lying coastal cities in a context of climate change : A thesis submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree of Doctor of Philosophy at Lincoln University(Lincoln University, 2024) Muangsri, SuphichaFlooding in low-lying coastal cities is projected to worsen with climate change. Planners are concerned about the inadequacy of their current flood protection capacity and the risks associated with under- or over-investment in expensive grey infrastructures under climate change uncertainty. Implementing green stormwater infrastructure (GSI) on strategically located developed land, particularly industrial land, maybe a lower-risk alternative; however, little is known about its potential for providing substantial catchment flood mitigation over time. In addition, there is no effective methodology for determining its potential in the context of climate change. In this research, a novel Hydrology-based Land Capability Assessment and Classification (HLCA+C) methodology is proposed and used to evaluate the flood mitigation capability (FMC) of strategic land use, having large properties over the long term (80 to 100-year period) with climate change. The methodology was then applied to a case study (the City of Christchurch) to determine the potential of industrial land for providing substantial flood mitigation. The results indicated industrial land has substantial flood mitigation capability in four of its six catchments, capturing both on-site and off-site runoff volumes. While their increased runoff volumes associated with climate change in two catchments can be reduced to a manageable level within the mid-term period (2031-2050), industrial land in the other two catchments had this capability up to the long-term period (2081-2100) and under much larger storm events, though not for all climate change scenarios. The methodology was also applied to one Christchurch catchment to evaluate the FMC of individual industrial properties further. The highly capable properties within the catchment were prioritised to be included in adaptative flood mitigation pathways. Considering the most appropriate implementation approach associated with properties’ FMC and timing for implementation (whether through a retrofit only, retrofit and transfer, redesign or relocation), their flood mitigation capabilities can be maximised in response to increased climate change impacts through time. This would result in flood mitigation just shy of that associated with the high emission scenario up to the end of this century. The findings of this research indicated that the size of drainage area controlled by GSI networks is dominantly responsible for enhancing FMC in the long term if the high groundwater level of industrial land was deeper than 2 m below the surface. Therefore, policies encouraging off-site runoff collection in large private properties, where capable, are deemed necessary to utilise the maximum GSI capability. The research demonstrates the effectiveness of this novel methodology over existing methods for helping planners develop adaptive flood mitigation plans through time with climate change. These outputs can facilitate planners in developing flood mitigation policies and strategies for the long-term protection of their communities. The findings from the application of this methodology demonstrate that implementing such GSI networks on capable industrial land can provide effective low-risk supplemental flood mitigation to ensure communities in low-lying cities are protected from climate change–induced flooding in the long term. It will also allow costly investments in flood mitigation structures, such as barriers and levees, to be safely delayed until their cost-effectiveness has been confirmed under increased climate certainty. To maximise the FMC of existing industrial land, the research recommends that planners designate strategic stormwater management zones in city plans. These can be used in support of implementing policies to encourage on-site and off-site runoff collection and the establishment of new governing bodies to regulate the uses of land for implementing GSI networks and ensure long-term flood mitigation.