Reserves and Parks User Guidelines

If you're planning to visit one of our many reserves or parks for a picnic, a BBQ or a small gathering for special occasion, here are some things you need to know to make the most of your visit.

• Signs, banners, guy ropes or other items are not to be attached to the trees or structures in the reserve and please ensure they are set up in a safe location so they aren’t a trip hazard for other people using the reserve.
• Small portable gazebos can be used but larger structures are not permitted as they can restrict public access to the reserve/park.
• If you are planning on erecting a marquee larger than 100m2 or platforms/staging higher than 1.5m you will need to apply for a building consent.
• You may put up small signs to direct guests to the location but these must be self-standing and not fixed to any structure/tree in the park. Don’t forget to remove them all before you leave.
• Please remove your rubbish, or use any bins provided. Council encourages recycling.
• You will need prior written permission to drive or park any vehicle (excluding bicycles), motorcycles, or land yacht on any park of the beach. For more information on vehicles on the beach, see Section 10 of the Reserves and Facilities Bylaw.
• Please remember that the reserve/park is a public space so share the space and remember others are welcome to enter at any time. This includes using the car parking.
• It’s best to check before you go to the park for your event in case it is already booked for another event. Check out our bookings with the Events Team on 07 571 8008.
• Council has various bylaws that relate to using a reserve. You can check these out on our website to make sure you’re up with the play: Dog Control Bylaw 2016, Alcohol Control Bylaw 2022 and the Reserves and Facilities Bylaw 2018
• Council has a Smoke Free Policy for all reserves. While this doesn’t ban smoking, it does encourage people who wish to smoke to be aware of the health and well-being of others in the vicinity. Further information on the Smoke Free Policy can be found under Council’s of Park Management Plan (Policy 24 (P24).

Key health and safety reminders:

It’s important that you have an enjoyable and safe experience in our parks/reserves. Here are some basic health and safety reminders.

• Site inspection: Inspect the area you are intending to use and identify any hazards/risks. You will need to put measures in place to remove the hazard/risk or to reduce the chance of anyone being harmed. For example - covering a small hole to prevent anyone tripping. If you are concerned about a hazard/risk, please contact Council on 07 571 8008.
• BBQs: Check that gas bottle/s and associated valves and fittings are certified and fit for purpose. If you have a fire extinguisher available and know how to use it, have it easily accessible. Council has provided barbeques in some reserves and there are operating instructions clearly visible on these. Please make sure children are supervised around the BBQ.
• Supervision: Ensure you have enough adults to share the supervision of children at all times during your event. For more information regarding adult to child ratios see the Early Childhood Education website. An example for licensed, mixed-age childcare facilities is one adult for up to three children of mixed age (between 0 - 6 years).
• Water Safety: Many of our parks have ponds or are close to waterways/harbour. Water Safety New Zealand has four simple rules to remember each time you venture near the water:
• Safety: Keep a charged mobile phone with you while you are in the park (maybe ask someone else in your group to have one at the ready too). Before you venture out, it’s a good idea to know where the closest Emergency Department is located – just in case of an accident.
• Out in the weather: Our summers can be really hot in the Bay of Plenty so make sure you have plenty of sunscreen, a hat and some shade options (maybe a sun umbrella). Be sun-smart and slip/slop/slap before you go and repeat if you are in the sun for a period of time. If it looks like rain – take the appropriate wet weather clothing and pack an extra layer to keep warm in case the temperature takes a dive.
• Be prepared
• Watch out for yourself and others
• Be aware of the dangers
• Know your limits.