Last updated June 2026
Pākōwhai Regional Park is a compact country-style reserve located just north of Hastings in Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand. Managed by the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council, it provides easy access to rural scenery, walking paths and dedicated dog facilities for local residents and visitors alike. The park sits on land shaped by the Heretaunga Plains Flood Control Scheme and features the Raupare Stream running through its centre. It serves primarily as a day-use destination with no overnight camping permitted.
Practical Information
| Location | Off Pakowhai Road, 5 km north of Hastings, 12 km from Napier |
| Manager | Hawke’s Bay Regional Council |
| Established | 1973 |
| Paths | Approximately 2 km of easy-walking tracks |
| Facilities | Paved parking, picnic tables, composting toilet, water, dog waste bags and bins |
| Dogs | Off-leash areas and agility course permitted |
| Camping | Not permitted (day use only) |
| Accessibility | Some paths steep or rough; not suitable for all prams or wheelchairs |
| Access | By car via Pakowhai Road roundabout; connects to Hawke’s Bay Trails for cyclists |
About Pākōwhai Regional Park
Pākōwhai Regional Park occupies a small area of land between the Ngaruroro River stopbank and Pakowhai Road. Originally established in 1973 through community efforts led by Dr Michael Bostock, the park was formerly known as Pakowhai Country Park and has been administered by the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council since 1996. Its landscape includes mature trees, a pine plantation, open grass, wetlands and stopbanks that form part of the regional flood control infrastructure.
The Raupare Stream flows through the park, crossed by small bridges that link the network of paths. Specimen trees, carved seats made from storm-felled timber and an exotic tree arboretum add interest for walkers and picnickers. The park also supports common native birds such as tūī and bellbirds, along with aquatic life in the stream.
Although the park connects to the Hawke’s Bay Trails network, cyclists are generally discouraged from riding the internal paths. A composting toilet and water are available, and a mobile café sometimes operates in the car park. Visitors must take all rubbish with them.
Walking Paths and Trails
Approximately 2 km of maintained paths wind through the park’s varied terrain. The routes cross the Raupare Stream on small bridges and pass through mature trees and open grass areas. Some sections are steep or rough, making them unsuitable for prams or wheelchairs. The paths link to the wider Hawke’s Bay Trails system at the northern edge, allowing extended rides or walks along the stopbank.
Dog-Friendly Features
Locally known as “the dog park,” Pākōwhai Regional Park offers off-leash areas and a central dog agility course with obstacles. Dog waste bags and bins are provided. Owners must keep dogs under control at all times, especially between January and April when toxic karaka berries are present on trees throughout the park. The facilities are popular with families and dog walkers, and regular community events such as “Paws at Pākōwhai” are held.
Day Use Only and Regulations
Overnight camping is not permitted at Pākōwhai Regional Park. The site is managed for day visits only, with visitors expected to depart before dark. Dogs are welcome under the conditions noted above. Fishing is not provided for within the park boundaries. Respect for wildlife, other users and the flood-control infrastructure is required at all times.
Environmental and Historical Context
The park’s location results from the 1968 diversion of the Ngaruroro River as part of the Heretaunga Plains Flood Control Scheme. A large stopbank forms the northern boundary. Community planting programmes since the 1970s have created a mix of native and exotic trees that support local biodiversity. The park suffered damage during Cyclone Gabrielle in 2023, highlighting its role within the regional flood-protection network.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors appreciate the short, flat loops that are ideal for a quick walk or letting dogs run freely. Many note the pleasant mix of open grass and tree cover, plus the convenience of parking and a toilet.
Dog owners frequently describe the agility course and off-leash space as highlights, while families enjoy the picnic tables and easy access from Hastings or Napier. Some mention that certain paths can be muddy or uneven after rain.
Where to Learn More
Hawke’s Bay Regional Council – Pākōwhai Regional Park: Official page with map, facilities and current notices.
Hawke’s Bay Tourism – Pākōwhai Regional Park: Visitor overview and location details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is camping allowed at Pākōwhai Regional Park?
No, overnight camping is not permitted. The park is managed for day use only.
Are dogs allowed off leash?
Yes, designated off-leash areas and an agility course are available, but dogs must remain under control at all times.
Are there toilets?
A composting toilet is provided on site.
Can I cycle inside the park?
Cyclists are discouraged from using the internal paths, although the park connects to the Hawke’s Bay Trails network along the stopbank.
Is fishing permitted in the Raupare Stream?
Fishing is not provided for within the park.
What should I know about karaka trees?
Karaka berries are toxic to dogs between January and April; keep pets under close supervision.
Is the park accessible for wheelchairs or prams?
Some paths are steep or rough and may be difficult for mobility aids.
Where can I find more information on the flood-control history?
Educational signs and a book on the park’s history are available through the Hawke’s Bay Regional Council.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.
