Last updated July 2026
Flaxmere Park is a large, award-winning recreational reserve in the Flaxmere suburb of Hastings, New Zealand. The park spans approximately 17 hectares of flat land and serves as a central community hub with extensive facilities for families, sports groups and casual visitors. It features a premier fenced playground with a splash pad, a skate plaza, sports fields, a nine-hole disc golf course, a ki-o-rahi field, walking and cycling tracks, outdoor exercise equipment and a central pond. Mature shade trees, picnic areas and free community barbecues complete the setting. The park hosts community events and has received national recognition for its active design and inclusive facilities.
Practical Information
| Location | Flaxmere, Hastings, between Flaxmere Avenue, Plymouth Road, Bristol Crescent, Wilson Road and Henderson Road |
| Access points | Multiple entrances including Swansea Road to Flaxmere Avenue, Henderson Road and Wilson Road |
| Facilities | Fenced playground with splash pad, skate plaza, sports fields, disc golf course, ki-o-rahi field, walking/cycling tracks, outdoor exercise stations, picnic tables, free community BBQ, public toilets (daytime), car parking |
| Entry fee | Free |
| Opening hours | Open at all times; toilets available during daytime |
| Awards | Recreation Aotearoa Active Park of the Year (2020 and 2023); multiple Green Flag awards |
| Dogs | Permitted on leads; owners must clean up after pets |
About Flaxmere Park
Flaxmere Park lies at the heart of the Flaxmere community in Hastings and functions as the suburb’s primary recreational space. The flat, tree-lined reserve includes a central pond that supports local wildlife such as ducks and provides a focal point for visitors. Extensive mature shade trees offer cooling and improve the park’s microclimate while supporting biodiversity.
The park underwent a major upgrade completed in 2019 that added the current playground, splash pad, skate plaza, improved parking, lighting and shared paths. Cultural design elements, including those at the skate plaza known as Te Pae Whīra o Pā Harakeke, were developed with mana whenua input. The result is a versatile, inclusive environment that balances active recreation with quiet green spaces.
Community input shaped the facilities, ensuring they meet local needs. The park’s design incorporates both modern play equipment and traditional Māori elements, reflecting the area’s heritage and fostering a strong sense of ownership among residents.
Playground and Family Facilities
The fenced playground ranks among Hastings’ premier facilities and includes swings, slides, climbing frames, a gyroscope and a splash pad for water play in warmer months. Picnic tables and a free-to-use community barbecue make the area ideal for family gatherings. Public toilets operate during daytime hours, and the layout supports easy supervision of children.
Sports and Active Recreation
Sports fields are marked for football in winter and cricket in summer. A nine-hole disc golf course weaves through natural obstacles, while a dedicated ki-o-rahi field provides a unique Māori team sport option. Adult exercise stations line the walking and cycling tracks, allowing visitors to combine fitness with outdoor enjoyment. The park’s flat terrain and extensive paths also suit casual cycling and walking.
Events and Community Use
Flaxmere Park regularly hosts large community events, festivals, sports competitions and cultural celebrations. Its open spaces and facilities make it a popular venue for organised gatherings. Visitors should check the Hastings District Council website for current event notifications and any temporary access changes.
What Visitors Often Say
Families praise the large, safe playground and splash pad that keep children entertained for hours, along with the convenient picnic and barbecue areas. Many appreciate the variety of activities available in one location, from sports fields to disc golf and walking tracks.
Locals highlight the park’s welcoming atmosphere, mature trees for shade and its role as a community meeting place. Reviewers often note the inclusive design and the sense of pride the suburb feels toward its award-winning facilities.
Where to Learn More
Hastings District Council – Flaxmere Park: Official page with current facilities, field maps and booking information.
Hastings District Council news archive: Details on the park’s national Active Park of the Year awards.
Hastings District Council – Te Pae Whīra o Pā Harakeke skate plaza: Information on the culturally designed skate facility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed in Flaxmere Park?
Dogs are permitted but must remain on a lead. Owners are required to clean up after their pets and respect any restricted areas.
Is there an entry fee?
No, entry to Flaxmere Park is free for all visitors.
What are the opening hours?
The park is open at all times. Public toilets are available during daytime hours.
Can picnic tables or facilities be reserved?
Picnic tables and the community barbecue cannot be reserved. The park operates on a first-come, first-served basis for casual use.
Are there food vendors on site?
Food vendors may appear during organised community events. Check the Hastings District Council events page for current schedules.
Is the playground fenced and suitable for young children?
Yes, the playground is fully fenced and includes age-appropriate equipment plus a splash pad.
Does the park have wheelchair access?
The flat terrain, shared paths and accessible facilities support wheelchair users; parking is available near main activity areas.
Are there any seasonal restrictions?
Sports fields change markings seasonally (football in winter, cricket in summer). The park remains open year-round with no general closures.
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