Havelock North Village Green: A Central Green Space for Events and Relaxation

Havelock North Village Green is your go-to spot for relaxation and community events, located at the base of Te Mata Peak. Since its redevelopment in 2017, it blends historical charm with modern amenities. You'll find a playground, BBQ areas, and facilities for family-friendly activities. The Mackersey Family Pavilion hosts various events, from outdoor concerts to community gatherings. With its large green space, this hub attracts thousands, fostering a sense of togetherness. Plus, this eco-friendly area features native plants and sustainable practices. Stick around, and you'll discover even more about its vibrant community and offerings!

Major Highlights

  • Havelock North Village Green is a community hub, hosting outdoor concerts and events throughout the year for local engagement.
  • The park features a large grassed open space, ideal for gatherings, picnics, and recreational activities.
  • Facilities include a state-of-the-art playground, BBQ spots, and a skate park catering to various skill levels.
  • Regular maintenance and safety checks ensure a secure environment for families and visitors.
  • Sustainable practices, such as tree planting and stormwater management, enhance the park's ecological balance and visitor experience.

Location and Setting

Nestled at the foot of Te Mata Peak, Havelock North Village Green offers a picturesque setting in Hawke's Bay. This charming spot not only showcases the region's natural beauty but also serves as a central hub for community bonding.

Located in the quaint country town of Havelock North, the Village Green is surrounded by expansive grassed areas and significant tree planting, providing ample shade and a serene atmosphere for gatherings.

Adjacent to the Village Pools and near the Te Mata Rd side, you'll find this green space integrated seamlessly into the local community. Since its official opening on April 1, 2017, it has become a focal point for various community activities and events, thanks to a successful community-led redevelopment project supported by local fundraising efforts.

The relocated historic cricket pavilion adds a touch of nostalgia, while the overall design aligns with the Havelock North Domain Reserve Management Plan.

Voted New Zealand's most beautiful suburb in 2017, Havelock North Village Green not only enhances the local aesthetic but also fosters a strong sense of togetherness among residents, making it an essential part of Havelock North's identity.

Facilities and Amenities

At Havelock North Village Green, you'll find a fantastic playground with state-of-the-art equipment, including climbing frames and outdoor musical instruments.

When it comes to hosting events, the Mackersey Family Pavilion offers versatile spaces perfect for birthday parties or community gatherings.

With so many facilities at your fingertips, you're sure to enjoy every moment spent here.

Playground Features and Equipment

The playground at Havelock North Village Green offers an exciting array of features and equipment designed for fun and engagement. You'll find climbing frames, swings, and slides that cater to kids of all ages, ensuring endless hours of play.

The extensive water play feature is perfect for warm days, while the roundabout adds a classic touch to the experience. Don't forget to check out the unique xylophone made of metal pipes, which encourages musical creativity.

For those looking to take things up a notch, the brand-new skate park provides an extensive paved area suitable for various skill levels. The creative use of the Ivory Spine surface enhances both safety and performance, allowing skaters to enjoy their time with peace of mind.

It's essential to note that playground safety is prioritized here, with regular equipment maintenance ensuring everything remains in top condition.

Beyond the playground, you'll find areas for table tennis and chess, plus plenty of grassy space for games and picnics. With shaded spots and BBQ facilities nearby, you're set for a wonderful day of enjoyment at the Village Green.

Event Spaces and Facilities

Havelock North Village Green offers versatile event spaces and facilities that cater to both community gatherings and private celebrations. The Mackersey Family Pavilion is a prime venue, featuring a main room, kitchen, and essential toilet facilities. With a spacious tiled outdoor area accessible through French doors, it's perfect for any occasion.

Here's a glimpse of the event options available:

Venue Capacity Catering Options Booking Duration
Mackersey Pavilion Up to 150 people Local catering services Full day, half day, or 2 hours
Outdoor Area Flexible seating BBQ facilities available Varies by event
Community Spaces Multiple setups Picnic tables nearby Community rates apply
Annual Events Large gathering Local food trucks Special arrangements

With public toilets, shaded seating areas, and nearby local cafes, you'll find everything you need to host a successful event. Plus, safety assessments and a damages bond ensure your gathering runs smoothly. Whether it's an intimate gathering or a large celebration, Havelock North Village Green has the amenities to make your event memorable.

Events and Activities

At Havelock North Village Green, you can enjoy a variety of events, from outdoor concerts to community gatherings.

If you're interested in hosting an event, you'll find all the booking information you need to get started.

Plus, there are plenty of opportunities for community engagement that make the village green a vibrant hub for everyone.

Outdoor Concert Series

Get ready to enjoy a vibrant outdoor concert series that brings the community together for an unforgettable summer experience. This free series is part of 'Summer in the Park' and 'Jazz on the Village Green,' held over five weekends at the picturesque Havelock North Village Green.

  • Experience music diversity with local and international artists.
  • Enjoy a range of genres from jazz to opera and summer anthems.
  • Bring your own picnic and relax with family and friends.
  • Engage with a community of over 6,000 music lovers.

You'll be treated to performances by talented groups like Singing School New Zealand, the Hawke's Bay Caledonian and City of Napier Pipe Bands, and the lively Fuego Latino.

The concert series features covers from legends like Nina Simone and Etta James, ensuring something for everyone. The grassy open space invites you to dance under the trees or unwind on your blanket, while nearby picnic tables and playground facilities add to the fun.

This series not only entertains but fosters audience engagement, making summer recreation in Hawke's Bay a memorable experience for all.

Don't miss your chance to be part of this vibrant atmosphere!

Event Booking Information

Planning an event at the Havelock North Village Green is straightforward, ensuring you can make the most of this beautiful venue.

To start, familiarize yourself with the booking procedures. If your event will host over 50 people, you'll need to make your booking at least 20 working days in advance. You can check venue availability and complete your booking online or by reaching out to the parks team at PNevents@pncc.govt.nz.

Make sure to adhere to the event guidelines, which include obtaining any necessary licenses and permits, also managed by the parks team.

When organizing your event, consider incorporating family-friendly activities like bouncy castles or live music performances. You can also arrange food trucks and vendors to enhance the experience.

Keep logistical considerations in mind, such as ensuring adequate space for different activities and vendors, and advising attendees about parking and cash requirements for certain activities.

Community Engagement Opportunities

How can you make the most of your time at Havelock North Village Green? Dive into the vibrant community engagement opportunities available, designed to bring people together and foster connections.

Whether you're looking to participate or simply enjoy, there's something for everyone.

  • Join in on "A Day on the Village Green" for family fun.
  • Participate in community workshops to learn and create.
  • Enjoy live music performances and delicious food from local food trucks.
  • Volunteer initiatives support local causes like the Havelock North Volunteer Fire Brigade.

The Green is perfect for socializing, with a large open space for picnics and games, and a kids playground that keeps little ones entertained.

You can also explore the skate park or challenge friends to table tennis or chess. The Mackersey Family Pavilion offers a cozy spot for community gatherings and events.

Engaging in these activities not only enriches your experience but also strengthens the community fabric.

Community Engagement

Engaging the community in the redevelopment of Havelock North Village Green has been a vital aspect of the project's success. Your participation and support are crucial, not just for funding but also for bringing the community together. With a redevelopment cost of $1.5 million, the Hastings District Council has committed significantly, yet an additional $300,000 is needed from community contributions. This fundraising effort stands as the largest ever undertaken in Havelock North.

Community events like "A Day on the Village Green" foster connections and provide volunteer opportunities for everyone. Here's how community engagement plays a role:

Activity Impact Your Involvement
Fundraising Campaign Builds resources for development Donate or organize events
Community Events Strengthens relationships Participate and volunteer
Playground Installation Enhances family activities Help with construction
Event Performances Showcases local talent Attend and support

Together, these efforts ensure the Village Green becomes a cherished space for relaxation and events, creating a vibrant hub for all ages. Your involvement truly matters!

Environmental Features

In the heart of Havelock North, the redevelopment of the Village Green emphasizes environmental features that enhance both beauty and sustainability. You'll notice the careful planning that supports sustainable landscaping and biodiversity enhancement throughout the area.

  • Tree planting for shade and urban cooling
  • Sustainable stormwater management techniques
  • Native plants promoting ecological balance
  • Green spaces supporting local wildlife habitats

The addition of trees, protected by Kiwi Tree Grates and Guards, not only beautifies the park but also helps reduce the urban heat island effect. By providing shade and evaporative cooling, these trees contribute significantly to the overall environmental benefits of the Village Green.

Water features, including a Ghisella Heritage-style fountain, complement the landscape while managing stormwater through rain gardens and bioswales. This thoughtful design captures and filters runoff, enhancing the aesthetic appeal and supporting ecological balance.

Large grassed areas and native plant landscaping create a welcoming environment for both residents and wildlife.

Awards and Recognition

Havelock North Village Green has earned the prestigious Green Flag Award, highlighting its commitment to quality park management.

You'll appreciate how the park meets community engagement standards and environmental sustainability practices, ensuring it consistently serves the needs of residents.

This recognition not only celebrates the park's design but also its vital role in the community.

Green Flag Award

The Green Flag Award serves as a prestigious recognition for parks and green spaces that meet high standards of management and accessibility. If you're part of a community with a green space like Havelock North Village Green, achieving this award can be a game-changer.

Here are some compelling reasons to pursue the Green Flag Award:

  • Enhanced Community Access: Ensures safe, well-managed green spaces for everyone.
  • Best Practices Recognition: Acknowledges the hard work of staff and volunteers.
  • Global Excellence Mark: Sets high standards for parks and open areas worldwide.
  • Funding Opportunities: Helps secure funding and demonstrates the site's value to the community.

To qualify, any publicly accessible green space can apply, provided they've a site-specific management plan.

The judging process involves rigorous assessments based on 27 criteria, including user understanding and biodiversity. You'll need to score at least 66 points overall to earn the Green Flag.

This recognition not only promotes superior park management but also inspires continuous improvement, making your green space a better place for all.

Community Engagement Standards

Achieving the Green Flag Award not only highlights the importance of quality park management but also underscores the value of community engagement in creating vibrant public spaces.

Your involvement in the Havelock North Village Green project exemplifies this principle. Extensive community consultation ensured that the playground and park met local needs, demonstrating how participatory design can lead to successful outcomes.

Local residents played a pivotal role, encouraging the Council to undertake the project and raising funds to assist with development costs. Community feedback was crucial, particularly in the restoration of the historic Havelock North Cricket Pavilion, which was moved with input from you and your neighbors.

The recognition received from the New Zealand Recreation Association (NZRA) reflects not only innovative design features but also the strength of community involvement.

The project earned a merit award in the 'Outstanding Project' category, showcasing how collective efforts can create spaces that resonate with everyone. This success is a testament to the power of community engagement standards, proving that when you participate, you help shape a park that truly serves its people.

Environmental Sustainability Practices

Recognition for environmental sustainability practices at the Havelock North Village Green stands as a testament to effective management and community collaboration. The park has garnered significant accolades, reflecting its commitment to sustainability initiatives and strong environmental partnerships.

  • Received one of 20 national awards from NZRA in the 'Outstanding Project' category.
  • Awarded a Green Flag Award for four consecutive years for high-quality recreational experiences.
  • Praised for excellent park management, including maintenance standards and biodiversity.
  • Judged against 27 criteria, showcasing exceptional environmental and sustainability practices.

These achievements highlight the park's impressive conditions and the community's role in maintaining them. The collaborative efforts between volunteers and the Hastings District Council ensure that the park meets and exceeds stringent criteria.

Regular assessments and innovative management strategies have solidified its reputation as a premier green space. By promoting environmental partnerships and focusing on sustainability initiatives, the Havelock North Village Green not only serves as a beautiful venue for events but also embodies a model for responsible park management.

You can take pride in being part of a community that values and recognizes these essential practices.

Accessibility and Transport

Nestled in the heart of Havelock North, the Village Green offers multiple access points from Te Mata Rd, Napier Rd, and Karanema Dr, making it easy for you to visit. The well-defined entrances enhance navigation, ensuring that you can locate your way to this vibrant space without hassle.

While specific accessibility features aren't mentioned, the park's Green Flag Award indicates good management practices, promoting overall entrance accessibility.

You'll find that the Village Green is centrally located within Havelock North village, which boosts walkability and accessibility. Although there's no direct information on public transport options, the park's proximity to various accommodations, like the Havelock North Motor Lodge, means you can easily stroll to the Green.

Parking facilities are generally adequate in the area, providing you with transport options for reaching the park. While no designated parking areas exist within the park itself, you won't face restrictions on vehicle access.

The extensive paved areas and large grassed spaces accommodate both pedestrians and cyclists, creating a welcoming environment for everyone to enjoy.

Recreational Opportunities

The Village Green in Havelock North is a hub of recreational opportunities that cater to all ages and interests. Whether you're looking to engage in some family bonding or embrace an active lifestyle, you'll find plenty to enjoy.

  • Extensive kids' playground featuring water activities
  • A skate park for various skill levels
  • Four-pool outdoor complex with heated pools
  • Large grassed open space for gatherings and events

Kids can explore climbing frames, swings, and a unique xylophone made of metal pipes, ensuring endless fun.

For those who love sports, the skate park accommodates all skill levels, while the Village Pool offers a fantastic place for lap swimming and relaxation. With its four different pools, including a toddler's pool, it's perfect for families looking to create lasting memories.

The large grassed area is ideal for picnics or games, allowing families to bond while enjoying the outdoors.

Plus, the Mackersey Family Pavilion is perfect for hosting events, making it an excellent choice for community gatherings.

The Village Green truly provides a vibrant space where you can promote an active lifestyle and strengthen family ties.

Historical Significance

Havelock North Village Green boasts a rich historical significance that dates back to its registration in 1888 as the Havelock Recreation Ground. This space has long served as a vital hub for community life, fostering a strong sense of cultural heritage.

From its inception, it became a gathering spot for various recreational activities, including sports and community events, reflecting the town's recreational history.

The Domain Swimming Baths, which opened in 1921, marked a notable enhancement in 1958 when they were expanded, showcasing the area's evolving needs.

Landmark structures like the Eric Phillips-designed Pavilion, opened in 1938, have anchored the Green's identity, providing essential services for local clubs and community groups over the decades.

Despite challenges, such as the construction of Karanema Drive that isolated the pavilion, efforts to revitalize the space have restored its significance.

The pavilion's relocation as part of the 2016 Reserve Management Plan further emphasizes its enduring role.

Today, the Village Green remains a cherished community resource, continuing to celebrate its historical roots while adapting to modern needs, ensuring that its legacy thrives for future generations.

Future Developments

Future developments around the Village Green are set to enhance the community's recreational landscape significantly. With plans for new neighbourhoods and green spaces, you can expect vibrant areas for relaxation and connection. Here's what's on the horizon:

  • A new 2ha park featuring a natural playground and wetland
  • A 10ha reserve with limestone walking tracks for public access
  • Redevelopment of the Village Green, including a children's water play area
  • Integration with the Iona development, bringing future housing and amenities

The Hastings District Council's $1.5 million investment, combined with community fundraising efforts, aims to create a space that fosters community connectivity.

The Village Green redevelopment will feature the historic Mackersey Family Pavilion and new seating areas, making it an inviting venue for events.

Moreover, the Iona development will accommodate up to 1,500 residents, addressing the local housing shortage while connecting to the iWay cycling and walking network.

Your involvement in supporting these initiatives is crucial. Engage with the community fundraising and help shape these future developments into a thriving hub for everyone to enjoy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Pets Allowed in Havelock North Village Green?

Pets aren't allowed in the playground areas, so you'll need to follow pet-friendly policies. If you bring your dog, make sure it's on a leash and be aware of potential fines for violations.

What Are the Park's Opening and Closing Hours?

You'll find the park open from 6:30am to 8:30pm in summer and 6:30am to 5:30pm in winter. Enjoy seasonal activities and park amenities like playgrounds and public toilets during your visit.

Is There a Fee for Using the Playground?

Imagine a carefree day at the playground—there's no fee for you! While playground maintenance ensures safety measures are in place, you can enjoy the equipment and space without worrying about costs. Have fun!

Can I Host a Wedding at the Village Green?

You can't host a wedding reception at the village green, but you can arrange an intimate ceremony and photos. For comprehensive event amenities, consider alternative venues that cater specifically to wedding arrangements and larger gatherings.

Are There Any Restrictions on Music or Noise During Events?

There're music regulations you must follow during events. If noise exceeds limits, you could face complaints from neighbors, fines, or even equipment seizure. Keeping the volume reasonable ensures a peaceful experience for everyone involved.

Conclusion

Havelock North Village Green is more than just a pretty park; it's a vibrant hub for the community. Did you know that over 150 events are hosted here each year? That's a testament to its role in bringing people together, whether for relaxation or celebration. With its beautiful setting and diverse activities, the Village Green invites you to explore, engage, and enjoy everything it has to offer. Don't miss out on experiencing this lively space!