This classification applies to those locations that have been declared protected areas but whose cultural and natural resources and values are considered not to be up to full national park standard at the current time of declaration. They are usually areas that have been subject to a previous use such as forestry or some form of agriculture.

They are to be managed to restore to the greatest possible extent to the parks natural condition and protect and restore the conservation values so that they can be dedicated as a national park. Any use of the park is to be nature based or consistent with an approved regeneration plan.

They can be contiguous with an existing national park or a separate area.