Last updated July 2026
Eskdale Park, also known as Herepoho Eskdale Park or Te Papa Rēihia o Herepoho, is a public reserve in the Hastings District of Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand. Situated off State Highway 5 four kilometres north of Napier, the park lies beside the Esk River and offers open space for recreation. It spans 12 hectares in total, with 7 hectares available for public use. Part of the land was gifted to the community by Thomas Clark in the 1920s. Cyclone Gabrielle caused extensive damage in 2023, destroying most facilities, but the park has since reopened in a limited capacity for pedestrian access.
Practical Information
| Location | Shaw Road off State Highway 5, four kilometres north of Napier, Hastings District |
| Size | 12 hectares total, 7 hectares for public use |
| Access | Pedestrian access only; vehicle access closed while grass establishes |
| Facilities | Limited: basic recreation space, small play area; toilets damaged and unavailable |
| Entry fee | Free |
| Bookings | Available for events via Hastings District Council |
| Status | Reopened for limited pedestrian use following Cyclone Gabrielle recovery |
About Eskdale Park
Eskdale Park occupies a riverside setting in rural Hawke’s Bay. The park provides open grassed areas and access to the Esk River, making it suitable for picnics, walking, and informal play. Its location near the river and rolling countryside creates a peaceful environment for visitors seeking a quiet outdoor experience.
The park forms part of the Hastings District Council’s network of reserves. It serves both local residents and those travelling from nearby Napier or Hastings. The dual naming reflects cultural significance, with Te Papa Rēihia o Herepoho sitting alongside the English name.
Recovery from Cyclone Gabrielle remains ongoing. Silt removal was completed by early 2025, and a blessing marked this milestone. A draft Reserve Management Plan for 2026–2036 outlines future improvements including new play equipment, pathways, furniture, riparian planting, and signage.
History
Part of the land was gifted to the community by Thomas Clark in the 1920s. The park has long served as a rural recreational space in the Esk Valley. Its development reflects the broader history of public reserves in Hawke’s Bay, balancing community use with the challenges of a riverside location.
Access and Current Status
Visitors enter via Shaw Road off State Highway 5. The park is open for pedestrian use with basic recreation space and a small play area available. Vehicle access remains closed while grass re-establishes. Public toilets are unavailable due to damage. Swimming spots in the Esk River are accessible, but visitors should exercise caution due to potential cyclone debris.
Activities
Current activities focus on low-impact recreation. Pedestrians can enjoy open spaces for picnics, informal play, and short walks. The riverside location supports opportunities for quiet reflection or gentle exploration along the water’s edge. Future plans include enhanced play facilities and pathways to expand options.
Recovery and Future Plans
Extensive recovery work followed Cyclone Gabrielle. Silt removal across the site was completed in 2025. The draft Herepoho Eskdale Park Reserve Management Plan, adopted for consultation in April 2026, proposes new infrastructure and planting to improve resilience and visitor amenities. Community input continues to shape these developments through Hastings District Council processes.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors appreciate the peaceful riverside setting and open spaces for family outings, noting the park’s convenient location just north of Napier. Some mention enjoying the natural surroundings for picnics and informal play before the cyclone impacts.
Recent comments highlight the ongoing recovery efforts and limited facilities, with people valuing the return of pedestrian access and looking forward to restored amenities and improved play areas.
Where to Learn More
Hastings District Council Eskdale Park page: Official details on location, access, facilities, and current status.
Draft Herepoho Eskdale Park Reserve Management Plan: Information on the 2026–2036 plan and proposed improvements.
Hastings District Council park bookings: Details on reserving areas for events and private functions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Eskdale Park open to the public?
Yes, it has reopened for limited pedestrian use with basic recreation space and a small play area available.
Are there toilets at Eskdale Park?
No, public toilets were damaged by Cyclone Gabrielle and remain unavailable.
Is there an entry fee?
No, entry to the public reserve is free.
Can I book the park for events?
Yes, areas can be booked through Hastings District Council; contact them in advance for availability and requirements.
Is vehicle access available?
No, the park is currently closed to vehicles while grass establishes following recovery works.
Is swimming safe in the Esk River near the park?
Access to river swimming spots exists, but visitors should take care due to potential cyclone debris.
Are dogs allowed?
Check current signage or contact Hastings District Council, as policies may apply under reserve rules.
What is the dual name of the park?
The park is also known as Herepoho Eskdale Park or Te Papa Rēihia o Herepoho.
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