Last updated July 2026
Ebbett Park is a neighbourhood park in the Raureka suburb of Hastings, New Zealand. It provides open grassed areas, mature trees for shade, a playground and tennis courts for local families and visitors. The park is managed by Hastings District Council and serves as a convenient spot for recreation and relaxation in Hawke’s Bay. Recent upgrades have improved facilities while preserving its community role.
Practical Information
| Location | Raureka, Hastings. Entrances off Oliphant Road, Gordon Road and Southland Road. |
| Parking | Off-street car park off Gordon Road. |
| Toilets | Unisex public toilet on site. |
| Dogs | Off-lead permitted 5pm to 8am; not permitted in playground. |
| Playground | Custom timber tower with slides, monkey bars, climbing spinner and swings. |
| Other facilities | Tennis courts, seating, picnic tables, drinking fountain, large grassed areas. |
| Management | Hastings District Council. |
About Ebbett Park
Ebbett Park occupies a central position in Raureka and offers a mix of active and passive recreation spaces. Mature trees provide shade across the large grassed areas suitable for games and picnics, while the playground and tennis courts support more structured play and sport.
The park was gifted to the community in 1927 by former Hastings mayor George Ebbett and his wife Eliza. The original gifting deed included provision for certain amenities that were incorporated into later upgrades.
In 2020 the park received a major upgrade that included a new playground, toilet, drinking fountain, additional seating, picnic tables and off-street parking. The new playground was officially opened on 28 October 2020.
Ebbett Park School lies on the south-western boundary, reinforcing the park’s longstanding connection to the local community.
Access and Parking
Visitors can enter Ebbett Park from Oliphant Road, Gordon Road or Southland Road. A dedicated off-street car park is located off Gordon Road, providing convenient vehicle access. The park is within walking distance for many Raureka residents.
Playground and Sports Facilities
The playground features a custom timber tower with a junior and senior slide, monkey bars, a climbing spinner and swings. Public tennis courts and open grassed areas support informal sports and active recreation for all ages.
Dogs at Ebbett Park
The park is a permitted dog off-lead area between 5.00 pm and 8.00 am. Dogs are not permitted in the playground area at any time to maintain safety for children.
History
George and Eliza Ebbett gifted the land in 1927. The 2020 upgrade acknowledged this gift, with Ebbett descendants attending the official playground opening. The new toilet and drinking fountain fulfilled elements requested in the original 1927 deed.
What Visitors Often Say
Families appreciate the shaded grass areas and updated playground equipment that keeps children engaged for extended visits.
Dog walkers value the evening off-lead hours and the park’s convenient location within the suburb.
Where to Learn More
Hastings District Council – Ebbett Park: Current facilities, dog rules and access details.
Hastings District Council – Ebbett Park upgrade: Details of the 2020 improvements and opening.
Frequently Asked Questions
What facilities are available at Ebbett Park?
Facilities include a playground, tennis courts, unisex toilet, drinking fountain, picnic tables, seating and large grassed areas.
When are dogs allowed off-lead?
Dogs may be off-lead from 5.00 pm to 8.00 am. They are not permitted in the playground at any time.
Is there parking at Ebbett Park?
Yes, there is an off-street car park off Gordon Road.
Who manages Ebbett Park?
The park is managed by Hastings District Council.
When was the playground upgraded?
The current playground was completed and officially opened in October 2020.
Are there nearby schools?
Ebbett Park School is located on the south-western boundary of the park.
Can the park be booked for events?
Contact Hastings District Council for park booking information and event guidelines.
What are the park entrances?
Entrances are located off Oliphant Road, Gordon Road and Southland Road.
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