There are more than 300 Council owned or administered green space reserves within the Waimakariri District, managed by the Green Space and Community Facilities Team.
The reserves vary considerably in their size, shape and characteristics. A large number have been developed to promote public use and provide open space for recreation and enjoyment in pleasant surroundings. Some also play a significant role in helping protect and enhance the District's natural environment.
Playgrounds
Many of the District's parks contain playgrounds. The biggest are usually located in central areas and at popular visitor destinations. Community Parks often have playgrounds of substantial size, while local Neighbourhood Park play areas are traditionally smaller.
Play spaces are designed to cater for various age groups and abilities, ranging from pre-schoolers through to facilities provided for teenagers and adventurous adults.
Garden Parks
These feature parks and reserves have high heritage value and attractive garden settings. Flowering annuals are a common theme, with rose gardens, perennial beds and fine specimen trees also present at some sites.
Kaiapoi Riverbanks
A number of attractive and historically interesting parks and reserves are linked together along the Kaiapoi River as it flows through the town of Kaiapoi. A continuous riverside walkway passes through these sites, providing opportunities for relaxation and exercise while enjoying the surroundings.
The Kaiapoi Riverbanks area was significantly affected by the Canterbury earthquake of 2010, but completion of essential repair work means the area can continue to be enjoyed by visitors. The Council and community are working together on plans to further restore or redevelop damaged sites and facilities.
Conservation Parks
These parks and reserves have natural qualities worthy of protection. Many also have a strong cultural or historic significance to the District. The protection and restoration of the natural functions and native biodiversity of these areas is a key focus. Nearly all are readily accessible and provide opportunities for outdoor recreation, relaxation and appreciation of nature.
Coastal Area Parks
The coastal settlements of Waikuku Beach, Woodend Beach, Pines Beach and Kairaki feature open park spaces popular with local residents and visitors from further afield. These well-maintained sites are highly used in the summer months, as they offer relaxing and informal settings for picnics and play. The nearby coastal reserve and local beaches are within walking distance.
Community Parks
Community parks are generally large, multi-purpose areas serving a community or group of neighbourhoods. These parks are often a focal point, especially for rural communities. Sufficient space is usually available for a range of recreation activities. Community buildings, toilets and substantial playgrounds are often present.
Neighbourhood Parks
Neighbourhood parks are smaller reserves catering for a specific local area. These landscaped green spaces provide an opportunity for neighbours to get together and for youngsters to play and socialise. Most have some play equipment and seating, but no toilet facilities.
Street Gardens and Street Trees
Street gardens and street trees are mainly located in built-up areas. Most are sited along the roadside, at traffic roundabouts or in township main streets. They are designed to add a natural feel and attractiveness to the landscape.
Picnic Friendly Parks and Barbecue Facilities
Picnic Friendly Parks
Some parks are popular destination sites where visitors might like to take a picnic and spend a few hours or more. They provide an attractive and relaxing setting close to other appealing features such as beaches, rivers, lakes and gardens. There's usually plenty of play space, as well as opportunities for walking or other activities.
Picnic reserves at Pines Beach and Kairaki coastal settlements are soon to undergo major redevelopment following the 2010 and 2011 Canterbury earthquakes. Facilities at these sites will be limited until mid-2012.
Barbecue Facilities
Push-button electric barbecue units are installed at a small number of parks. They are available to the public at no cost. Visitors are also permitted to take their own portable barbecues to larger picnic-type reserves. These should be gas-powered. Charcoal, wood or other open-flame fuels are not permitted due to fire risk, safety issues and disposal problems.
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