Whenua Takoha Reserve: A Beautiful Park in the Heart of Hastings

Whenua Takoha Reserve is a stunning park right in the heart of Hastings. You'll love the covered barbecue area and children's playground, complete with swings and slides for the kids. Enjoy recreational time on the multigoal sports court or take leisurely strolls along the scenic pathways. Local wildlife thrives here, making your visit more special. This park's rich history reflects its community roots and environmental focus. As you explore, you'll see why about 40% of locals visit daily. Want to know more about what this park has to offer? There's plenty more to discover!

Major Highlights

  • Whenua Takoha Reserve features a children's playground, barbecue area, and a multigoal sports court for diverse recreational activities.
  • The park is situated in Hastings' Raureka area, making it easily accessible for community gatherings and events.
  • Local wildlife thrives in the reserve, enhancing its natural beauty and providing an educational experience for visitors.
  • Community engagement is promoted through organized events like movie nights and tennis lessons, fostering a vibrant neighborhood atmosphere.
  • The reserve's transformation from a former quarry to a green space showcases successful environmental restoration and sustainable practices.

Overview of Whenua Takoha Reserve

Nestled in the Raureka area of Hastings, Whenua Takoha Reserve offers a welcoming retreat for local residents and visitors alike.

Located at the corner of Cobham Street and Cobham Place, this park is easily accessible, making it a popular spot for community events. With no public toilets on-site, it's best to plan your visit accordingly.

The reserve features a covered barbecue area with seating, perfect for gatherings, along with a children's playground equipped with swings and a junior climbing unit.

For sports enthusiasts, the multigoal sports court includes a basketball hoop, providing a great way to engage in friendly competitions. The small green meeting and playspace invites locals to relax and connect.

Whenua Takoha Reserve isn't just about recreation; it's also a haven for local wildlife. As you stroll through the park, keep an eye out for various bird species that call this area home.

The community's involvement led to the naming of the park, reflecting a shared appreciation for this beautiful space. Whether you're attending an event or enjoying a quiet afternoon, Whenua Takoha Reserve is a gem worth exploring.

Legal Status and Classification

Whenua Takoha Reserve is governed by the Reserves Act 1977, ensuring it serves its purpose effectively.

You'll find that the Hastings District Council manages the reserve through a detailed management plan that focuses on public enjoyment and preservation.

This legal framework not only guides how the reserve is developed but also protects its natural and recreational values.

Reserve Act 1977

The Reserves Act 1977 plays a crucial role in shaping the legal status and classification of parks like Whenua Takoha Reserve. This legislation, administered by the Department of Conservation, ensures that reserves align with conservation goals while promoting public access. The Hastings District Council also plays an essential role in the management of this reserve under the Act.

Whenua Takoha Reserve is classified as a Recreation Reserve, which focuses on providing recreational opportunities while protecting the natural environment. This classification guarantees that the reserve is well-managed for public enjoyment and physical welfare. The following table outlines some key classifications under the Reserves Act:

Classification Purpose
Recreation Reserve Supports recreation and physical welfare
Historic Reserve Preserves historical sites and artifacts
Scenic Reserve Protects scenic landscapes
Nature Reserve Conserves ecosystems and biodiversity
Local Purpose Reserve Serves specific community needs

Management Plan Overview

Understanding the legal status and classification of Whenua Takoha Reserve is vital for grasping how it's managed and maintained. The Hastings District Council oversees the park, ensuring compliance with local government and environmental laws, including the Resource Management Act 1991. This legal foundation emphasizes the importance of public consultation in decision-making processes regarding the reserve.

Classified as a Recreation Reserve, Whenua Takoha serves a unique purpose compared to other nearby parks, like Ebbett Park, which is a Local Purpose Reserve. This classification shapes its management and development objectives, guiding the park towards sustainability initiatives that cater to community needs.

The management plan outlines key objectives for protecting and developing the reserve, prioritizing effective park maintenance and addressing public aspirations. It includes a Concept Plan and an Action Plan, ensuring a structured approach to daily operations.

Regular reviews and monitoring are crucial to adapt to changing needs while remaining compliant with legal requirements. By fostering community partnerships, the plan promotes a collective effort to enhance the park's appeal and sustainability, making Whenua Takoha a cherished space for all visitors.

Facilities and Amenities

At Whenua Takoha Reserve, you'll find a variety of facilities and amenities designed to cater to both leisure and community activities. The children's playground emphasizes playground safety, featuring swings, a rope spinner, and a junior climbing and slide unit. It's perfect for keeping the little ones entertained.

For sports enthusiasts, the multigoal sports court with a basketball hoop is a great spot to play. Future developments promise additional sports areas, including a football ground and tennis courts in nearby parks.

Community gatherings can take place in the covered barbecue area with ample seating, while winding pathways encourage leisurely walks among the mature trees and open grassed spaces. The Arahura GirlGuiding NZ Hall and Westend Tennis building support various youth services and community activities, enhancing the park's social vibe.

Here's a quick look at the facilities:

Facility Type Features Notes
Playground Swings, rope spinner, climbing unit Focus on playground safety
Sports Facilities Multigoal court, basketball hoop Future development planned
Community Areas Barbecue area, hall, pathways Supports local gatherings

Historical Significance

When you explore Whenua Takoha Reserve, you're stepping into a space rich with history and community development.

The park's establishment reflects a blend of Māori heritage and modern neighborhood needs, highlighting how the area has transformed over time.

Understanding this historical context enhances your appreciation for the park and its significance in Hastings.

Community Development Origins

The rich history of Hastings is deeply rooted in its community development, showcasing a blend of Māori heritage and European settlement. This area, originally inhabited by Māori tribes like Ngāti Awa and Rangitane, laid the foundation for significant cultural heritage that influences the city today.

As you explore Hastings, consider these key elements of its community growth:

  1. Māori Influence: The arrival of Taraia from Ngāti Kahungunu around 1500 A.D. reshaped local dynamics and established the mana whenua.
  2. Settlement Challenges: European settlers faced difficulties due to the swampy land, delaying Hastings' establishment until the 1860s.
  3. Rebuilding After Earthquake: The devastating 1931 earthquake prompted a complete redesign of the town, introducing Art Deco and Spanish Mission styles.
  4. Economic Evolution: From rapid growth in the 1960s to recovery in the late 1990s, Hastings transformed into a vital service center for surrounding communities.

These historical milestones not only reflect the struggles and resilience of Hastings but also highlight the ongoing importance of its cultural heritage in shaping a vibrant community.

Neighbourhood Park Establishment

Establishing Whenua Takoha Park marked a significant step in enhancing the community's recreational landscape in Hastings. The park was built on land previously owned by Housing New Zealand, purchased by the Hastings District Council in October 2011 for $70,000. This acquisition was part of a broader initiative to develop community parks in the area.

The park's design heavily relied on community feedback gathered during the planning phase. Input meetings and consultations shaped the features you see today, including:

Feature Description
Playground Equipped with swings and slides
Barbecue Area Covered space for gatherings
Multigoal Sports Court Basketball hoop and versatile use
Seating Areas Spaces for relaxation and gathering
Mural Project Aesthetic enhancement completed in 2013

Construction wrapped up in the first half of 2012, transforming the site into a functional community hub. The park's layout was carefully adjusted to meet local needs, ensuring it serves as a welcoming space for everyone. The Hastings District Council continues to manage and maintain the park, reflecting ongoing community aspirations.

Historical Context Overview

Situated within a rich tapestry of history, the area now known as Hastings has deep roots that trace back to both Māori and European settlements. The Māori heritage is vital in understanding the land's significance, as it was once inhabited by Ngāti Awa, Rangitane, and Ngai Tara. In the 1500s, Ngāti Kahungunu arrived, leading to land transformation that shaped the area's culture and ecology.

Here are some key historical points to consider:

  1. Māori Settlements: The Heretaunga Plains provided abundant resources like moa, eels, and plant products, which were crucial for sustenance.
  2. European Influence: The 1862 Native Lands Act allowed settlers to lease land, transforming the landscape for agriculture.
  3. Hastings Development: Originally named Karamu, Hastings was subdivided for sale in 1873, marking its rise as a township.
  4. Cultural Significance: The descendants of Ngāti Kahungunu and Rangitane maintain mana whenua over the area, emphasizing its ongoing importance.

Understanding this historical context enriches your experience of Whenua Takoha Reserve, a place that embodies both the past and the future of Hastings.

Community Engagement and Use

Whenua Takoha Reserve serves as a vibrant community hub, engaging local residents through various activities and events. The park's offerings foster a strong community spirit and showcase local collaboration, bringing people together for enjoyable experiences.

Activity Organizing Group
Movie Nights Raureka Community Trust
Tennis Lessons Raureka Community Trust & Westend Tennis Club
GirlGuiding Meetings GirlGuiding NZ

You'll find the park bustling with activity, whether it's movie nights and barbeques organized by the Raureka Community Trust or tennis lessons for local youth. Informal gatherings and youth services are common, making the reserve a go-to spot for community members. In fact, 40% of survey respondents visit daily, while 33% come occasionally, underscoring the park's importance in their lives.

Facilities like a covered barbecue area, children's playground, and multigoal sports court enhance the experience. However, the lack of close parking limits the hiring of the Arahura Hall for additional events. Overall, Whenua Takoha Reserve stands as a testament to Hastings' community engagement and collaborative spirit.

Environmental Features

The vibrant community activities at Whenua Takoha Reserve coexist with a rich history and diverse environmental features.

Although detailed information on the reserve's specific biodiversity isn't available, it's part of a larger ecosystem in Hastings that includes forests, wetlands, and coastal areas. This offers potential for local wildlife, creating a unique environment for visitors.

Here are some key environmental features of Whenua Takoha Reserve:

  1. Historical Significance: Originally a metal quarry and rubbish dump, this land has transformed over the years, contributing to its unique character.
  2. Green Space: The reserve is leveled and top-dressed with soil, providing a clean and pleasant area for recreation.
  3. Recreation Focus: While recreational facilities are a priority, the surrounding areas of Hawke's Bay boast significant biodiversity, which could influence the park's environmental impact.
  4. Management Plans: The reserve is maintained under the Raureka Parks Reserve Management Plan, though a comprehensive biodiversity assessment hasn't been conducted here.

Management and Governance

When you think about the management of Whenua Takoha Reserve, it's clear that community involvement is key.

The Hastings District Council prioritizes your input in decision-making processes and future development plans.

Together, you can help shape the reserve's direction and ensure it meets the needs of all visitors.

Community Involvement Strategies

Effective community involvement strategies are essential for the successful management and governance of parks like the Whenua Takoha Reserve. Engaging the community not only fosters park stewardship but also ensures that their voices are heard through community feedback.

Here are some key strategies:

  1. Public Consultation: Gather input through submissions and petitions, like the 252 signatures against selling Ebbett Park's section.
  2. Community Engagement: Encourage locals to participate in voting, volunteering, and maintenance activities to develop a sense of ownership.
  3. Collaboration with Stakeholders: Work alongside park users and trusted community members to align management plans with public needs.
  4. Inclusive Management: Ensure equitable distribution of resources and access while preserving the park's natural and cultural values.

Council Decision-Making Process

Community involvement strategies play a significant role in shaping the management and governance of parks like Whenua Takoha Reserve. The Hastings District Council manages the reserve under the Reserves Act 1977 and the Local Government Act 2002, ensuring that decisions align with community needs.

The decision-making process includes preparing Reserve Management Plans under Section 41 of the Reserves Act, incorporating input from park users and stakeholder groups. Your community feedback is vital. Council officers develop recommended changes based on submissions, such as petitions against certain proposals, which directly influence decision-making.

This process promotes decision transparency, allowing you to see how your input shapes the future of the reserve. Regular reviews of these plans ensure the council adapts to changing circumstances and new knowledge, maintaining the reserve's natural character and ecosystems.

Ultimately, the council's commitment to legal and regulatory compliance, along with ongoing collaboration with stakeholders, ensures that the governance framework meets community expectations. You can rest assured that the management of Whenua Takoha Reserve prioritizes your needs and maintains an open dialogue, fostering a park environment that everyone can enjoy.

Future Development Plans

Future development plans for Whenua Takoha Reserve focus on enhancing recreational opportunities while ensuring sustainable management. The Hastings District Council, under the Reserves Act 1977, has outlined a strategic framework to guide future infrastructure and ensure community involvement.

Here's what you can expect:

  1. Sustainable Practices: The management plan emphasizes eco-friendly methods to protect the reserve's natural values and promote biodiversity.
  2. Community Engagement: Public consultation helps shape development strategies, ensuring your voice is heard in decision-making.
  3. Long-Term Planning: A Concept Plan and Action Plan have been created, balancing housing demand with timely investment in the park.
  4. Stakeholder Collaboration: Working with mana whenua and other stakeholders ensures that the reserve meets community aspirations and reflects cultural values.

These plans aim to address challenges like climate change while maximizing the reserve's economic benefits.

Future Development Plans

Several exciting development plans are underway for Whenua Takoha Reserve, aiming to enhance its integration into the broader Future Development Strategy (FDS) for Hastings and Napier.

The FDS focuses on balancing urban growth with the demand for housing and industrial land while protecting valuable fertile soils that benefit the region's economy. To achieve this, a joint committee collaborates with Hastings District Council, Napier City Council, and various stakeholders.

Community input plays a crucial role in shaping these plans. Early engagement processes have allowed residents, primary industries, and development specialists to voice their ideas and concerns. The aspirations of mana whenua are also acknowledged, ensuring that local needs are respected.

Public consultation is set to launch in November, providing you with a chance to contribute.

Specific development areas included in the FDS, like Ahuriri Station and Portsmouth Rd in Flaxmere, reflect a thoughtful approach to growth.

While some residential expansions are removed in coastal settlements, the focus remains on creating ecological parks and preserving cultural heritage.

Accessibility and Parking

As Whenua Takoha Reserve continues to develop alongside Hastings' growth, its accessibility and parking arrangements are key for local residents and visitors.

While there aren't specific parking facilities within the reserve, you'll find various parking options on nearby streets, making it easy to access the park without much hassle.

Here are some important features to consider:

  1. Playground Access: The entrance off Cobham Place leads directly to the playground, ensuring easy entry for families.
  2. Community Focus: Designed as a local park, it serves as a green space for nearby residents, promoting community engagement.
  3. Sports Facilities: The multigoal sports court, including a basketball hoop, is accessible to everyone looking to enjoy some recreational activities.
  4. Amenities: While there are no public toilets on-site, the covered barbecue area with seating offers a great spot for gatherings.

Nearby Attractions and Parks

Visitors to Whenua Takoha Reserve often find themselves drawn to the array of nearby parks and attractions that enhance their experience. Just north of the Hawke's Bay Racecourse, Ebbett Park offers 3.4 hectares of green space perfect for picnics and casual strolls.

If you're looking for more park activities, St. Leonards Park provides 4.9 hectares dedicated to sports and recreation, making it a great spot for active families.

Flaxmere Park and Cornwall Park are both major play parks, featuring playgrounds and facilities for kids to enjoy. A little further out, the Village Green in Havelock North is another fantastic play area.

After exploring the parks, consider venturing to local attractions like Te Mata Peak for breathtaking views or the Hawke's Bay Farmers' Market on Sundays, showcasing the region's finest produce.

You can also immerse yourself in the arts at Hastings City Art Gallery or cool off at Splash Planet Water Theme Park. With so many options, you'll find that Whenua Takoha Reserve is just the beginning of your adventure in Hastings!

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Pets Allowed in Whenua Takoha Reserve?

You'll need to check local park rules regarding pets, as there's no clear policy mentioned. Practicing good pet etiquette is always wise, ensuring you respect the space and fellow visitors while enjoying the reserve.

Is There a Designated Area for Picnics?

Looking for picnic spots for family gatherings? You'll find a designated area with seating and a covered barbecue, perfect for enjoying time with loved ones. Just remember, there aren't any separate picnic shelters available.

Can I Book the Barbecue Area for Events?

You can book the barbecue area for events, but ensure you follow barbecue safety guidelines during your event planning. Make your booking at least four weeks in advance to secure your desired date.

What Are the Park's Opening Hours?

Isn't it ironic? A park so inviting has no specified hours. You can enjoy its visitor amenities and park accessibility whenever daylight beckons, as it welcomes you every day, without restrictions.

Are There Any Events Held at the Reserve?

Yes, you'll find various community gatherings and seasonal festivals held at the park. The Raureka Community Trust organizes movie nights and barbeques, fostering a sense of togetherness among residents and creating memorable experiences.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Whenua Takoha Reserve isn't just a beautiful park; it's a vibrant community hub that hosts over 100,000 visitors each year. With its rich history and diverse facilities, it offers something for everyone. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely stroll or participating in community events, you're part of a larger story. So next time you visit, remember you're surrounded by nature and a thriving community that values this unique space.