World landscape architectural leader honoured

Media release – June 4, 2008

World landscape architectural leader honoured for her services to protecting NZ’s environment

New Zealand’s drive to be 100 percent pure and environmentally sustainable has seen landscape architect Diane Menzies rewarded in the Queen’s Birthday honours list with the New Zealand Order of Merit.

Dr Menzies is the current president of the international landscape architecture organisation (IFLA) and is a life member of New Zealand Institute of Landscape Architects (NZILA).

She is a former president of NZILA and is an Environment Court Commissioner. She is also proud of her Ngati Kahungunu Maori heritage and is the first world president from New Zealand.

On becoming IFLA president, Menzies said she wanted to stop the burgeoning and polluted human footprint on the planet and to promote the landscape architecture profession.

Sustainability, integrated water planning and community values – such as preventing urban violence – have been the cornerstones of her world landscape architecture message.

``We know urban design can beat crime in cities which are facing increasing violence and crime which can destroy their appeal.

``If people understand how our landscapes function, and how our communities value the places they live in, we will have a better chance of healthier environmental policies.

``The landscape architecture profession has given me the most satisfying career I can imagine. But I am convinced that landscape architects could be more effective in the world with even closer communication and more effective collaboration with the larger decision-making organisations.’’

NZILA president Renee Davies today acknowledged Dr Menzies’ contribution.

``Recognition of the dedication and leadership that Diane has shown for the environment highlights the opportunity that landscape architects have to further efforts as ambassadors for those issues. She has led the way in that regard and reflects a level of commitment that we can all aspire to”.

ENDS

Photolink of Diane Menzies: http://www.nzila.co.nz/dianemenzies.htm

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