Last updated June 2026
At Flaxmere Park in Hastings, New Zealand, families and community groups enjoy a large, award-winning reserve with a premier playground, skate plaza and extensive sports facilities. The park spans 17 hectares and features inclusive play equipment, a nine-hole disc golf course and New Zealand’s first public ki-o-rahi field. Walking and cycling tracks wind through green spaces with mature trees, while adult fitness stations and picnic areas support a range of activities. Ongoing maintenance and recent upgrades keep the facilities in excellent condition for daily use and events.
Practical Information
| Location | Flaxmere, Hastings, New Zealand (corner of Henderson Road and Swansea Road) |
| Size | 17 hectares |
| Playground features | Destination playground with climbing towers, slides, swings, sand play and water play elements |
| Other facilities | Nine-hole disc golf course, ki-o-rahi field, skate plaza, sports fields, walking/cycling tracks, adult exercise stations, picnic areas, free BBQ, toilets, concrete stage |
| Access | Free entry; open during daylight hours; paved paths support accessibility |
| Awards | Green Flag Award; Recreation Aotearoa Active Park of the Year (2020 and 2023) |
| Dogs | Permitted on lead; no designated off-leash areas |
About Flaxmere Park
Flaxmere Park serves as a central recreation hub for the Flaxmere community in Hastings. The park underwent a major multi-million-dollar upgrade completed in 2019 that transformed it into a lively destination with diverse facilities for all ages and abilities.
The reserve includes expansive green spaces, a central pond area and mature trees that provide shade and visual appeal. Paved walking and cycling tracks connect the various activity zones, supporting both casual strolls and more active outings. The park has received national recognition, including the Green Flag Award for environmental management and multiple Recreation Aotearoa awards for its active recreation offerings.
Community input shaped the design, resulting in inclusive features such as accessible play equipment and fitness stations. The park hosts events on its concrete stage and sports fields, fostering social connections while offering spaces for relaxation and play.
Playground and Water Play
The destination playground stands out with a large climbing net tower and additional structures including an octagonal tower with tube slide, Flying Saucer swings, an inclusive carousel and sand play stations. Water play elements provide cooling options on warm days. Equipment uses durable, weather-resistant materials and incorporates safety features such as guardrails and shock-absorbing surfaces.
Sports and Recreation Activities
Visitors can play on a nine-hole disc golf course that winds through trees and open spaces. The park also contains New Zealand’s first public ki-o-rahi field, a traditional Māori sport, along with fields marked for football in winter and cricket in summer. A skate plaza offers multiple elements for skaters, and a parkrun course attracts regular runners. Adult exercise stations are positioned along the walking and cycling tracks.
Facilities and Accessibility
Picnic tables, a free community barbecue and shaded seating areas support gatherings. Modern toilets and a concrete stage with power points are available for events. Paved paths and inclusive design elements make much of the park accessible to a wide range of visitors. The park maintains high standards of upkeep, with regular inspections ensuring safety and cleanliness.
What Visitors Often Say
Families appreciate the variety of play equipment that keeps children engaged for hours, with the large climbing structures and water features frequently mentioned as highlights. The open spaces and mix of activities make it easy to combine playground time with sports or a relaxed picnic.
Disc golfers and runners praise the well-maintained course and parkrun route, noting the beginner-friendly layout and pleasant setting. Many visitors highlight the park’s role as a community gathering spot with good facilities and a welcoming atmosphere for all ages.
Where to Learn More
Hastings District Council – Flaxmere Park: Official page with current details on facilities, bookings and park management.
Playground Centre – Flaxmere Park project: Overview of the playground design and upgrade features from the installation partner.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the park’s opening hours?
Flaxmere Park is open during daylight hours year-round. Exact times vary with seasons, so check the Hastings District Council website for any temporary closures or event restrictions.
Are dogs allowed in Flaxmere Park?
Dogs are permitted but must remain on a lead at all times. There are no designated off-leash areas to ensure safety around children and other park users.
Is the playground accessible for all abilities?
Yes, the playground includes inclusive equipment such as a wheelchair-accessible merry-go-round, basket swings and ground-level play options alongside more challenging structures.
Can I book sports fields or picnic areas?
Sports fields and picnic facilities operate on a first-come, first-served basis for casual use. Formal bookings for events or larger groups are available through the Hastings District Council parks booking system.
Does the park have water play features?
Yes, the playground incorporates water play elements that operate seasonally, providing a refreshing option during warmer months.
Are there public toilets and BBQ facilities?
Modern public toilets and a free community barbecue are available on site, along with picnic tables and shaded seating areas.
Is there parking at Flaxmere Park?
Street parking and designated areas are available around the park perimeter, with good access from Henderson Road and Swansea Road.
Does the park host events?
Yes, the concrete stage, sports fields and open spaces regularly host community events, festivals and organised activities throughout the year.
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