FORMER REFUGEES' THERAPEUTIC LANDSCAPES IN DUNEDIN, NEW ZEALAND

Abstract

During resettlement in a new environment Former Refugees often face challenges for their physical, social and mental health and wellbeing such as past trauma, language and cultural differences. This article uses the therapeutic landscapes concept to explore how the physical, symbolic and social aspects of outdoor places in Dunedin, New Zealand, such as the beach and urban green spaces contribute to former refugees’ wellbeing during the resettlement process. 15 former Syrian refugees (from 4 families) participated in group interviews and at times shared photographs to illustrate what outdoor places they enjoyed and were therapeutic for them. This article argues that participants had diverse therapeutic landscapes that ranged from pristine scenic spots to everyday places such as the local park, but to enjoy and utilise the therapeutic values of these places more attention needs to be paid to access barriers.