Parks and Reserves

There's no easier or more pleasurable way to enjoy the great outdoors of the Western Bay than to step out for a leisurely walk or visit to one our many parks.

Soothing for the soul and good for your health, an outing on a walking track or to a park is an excellent opportunity to embrace and appreciate the beauty of the environment around you.

From short, easy coastal strolls and up-hill-and-down-dale tramps to testing bush trails there's something for everyone. There are also numerous parks around the Western Bay that cater for different active sporting codes.

Although most walks and facilities are in Council parks and reserves, some are managed by the Department of Conservation.

Select this link to view an interactive story map of our District that will show you what our District has to offer including walks and places to visit.

Parking and driving vehicles on beaches is restricted except with the prior written permission of the Council or an authorised officer, and in accordance with any conditions that may be required. This includes motorcycles and land yachts, and excludes bicycles. Please refer to Section 10 of the Reserves and Facilities Management bylaw.

Parking and driving vehicles in reserves is restricted except on those areas set aside specifically for such purpose. This includes bicycles and motorcycles. Please refer to Section 11 of the Reserves and Facilities Management bylaw.

Please note: If you're setting off on a walk and leaving your car in a carpark, we'd like to remind people to be extra vigilant with the security of your vehicle and belongings. Unfortunately there can be opportunistic thieves operating at the remote carpark sites such as Kaiate Falls and Ngamuwahine River.

Reserve Management Plans

There are management plans in place for 222 reserves across the District, including plans covering each urban community.

Management plans are a statutory requirement under the Reserves Act. A plan provides a one-stop reference point that includes a reserves classification and legal status, the area it covers, infrastructure and funding for capital projects councils want to undertake.

Please come this way for information on our Park/Reserve Management Plans.