Last updated July 2026
Windsor Park is a popular community reserve in Parkvale, Hastings, offering a large fenced playground, sports fields and picnic facilities right beside Splash Planet water park. The park features paths for walking and cycling, a stream with ducks, and rose gardens along Terrace Road. It serves as a central spot for families, sports teams and casual visitors in Hawke’s Bay. Free barbecues and picnic tables under mature trees make it convenient for gatherings. The playground was developed as a joint project between Hastings District Council and the local Lions Club.
Practical Information
| Location | Corner of Sylvan Road and Grove Road, Parkvale, Hastings 4122 |
| Playground | Lions Community Playground, fully fenced, 6,000 square metres |
| Sports | Fields for soccer, rugby, cricket and other codes; seasonal layouts available |
| Facilities | Free BBQ, picnic tables, public toilets, drinking water, paths for walking and cycling |
| Parking | Off-street parking available in designated areas |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair-friendly surfacing and inclusive play equipment |
| Dogs | Not a designated off-leash area; standard council rules apply |
| Hours | Open dawn to dusk; no entry fees |
About Windsor Park
Windsor Park sits in the Parkvale suburb of Hastings and borders the Splash Planet water park. It combines active sports facilities with family-friendly play areas and quiet green spaces. The park includes grassed fields used year-round for organised sport and casual games, plus perimeter paths popular with walkers, runners and cyclists.
The Lions Community Playground covers 6,000 square metres and includes a pirate ship, slides, climbing frames, swings and a seesaw. It is fully fenced for safety and features inclusive equipment suitable for children of varying abilities. Mature trees provide partial shade, and the area is supported by nearby toilets and drinking water.
A stream runs through the park, supporting local wildlife such as ducks. Rose gardens line the Terrace Road edge, adding seasonal colour and a pleasant setting for strolls. These natural features complement the sports fields and playground to create a versatile community space.
Playground and Family Facilities
The playground was installed through a partnership between Hastings District Council and Hastings Host Lions Club. Equipment includes a climbing web, large climbing frame, pirate ship, slides, swings and seesaw. The fully fenced design helps keep children safe while allowing parents to relax nearby.
Free barbecues and picnic tables are located under mature trees close to the playground. Dual toilets and a drinking water tap support longer visits. These amenities make Windsor Park a convenient choice for family outings and birthday gatherings.
Sports Fields and Active Recreation
Windsor Park functions as a multi-code sports ground with dedicated fields for soccer, rugby and cricket. Seasonal layouts accommodate different codes in summer and winter. Local clubs and youth teams regularly use the grounds for training and matches.
Paths around the perimeter of the fields provide additional opportunities for walking, running and cycling. The combination of formal sports space and informal paths supports both organised sport and casual fitness activities.
Access, Parking and Accessibility
The park is reached via local roads in Parkvale, with off-street parking available in designated areas. Motorised vehicles are restricted to these parking zones. Public transport options exist within Hastings district, though most visitors arrive by car.
Wheelchair-friendly surfacing and inclusive play equipment help make the playground accessible. Public toilets and shaded seating add to visitor comfort. Hastings District Council maintains the reserve and can provide updates on any temporary changes.
Nearby Attractions
Splash Planet water park lies directly beside Windsor Park, offering water slides and pools during warmer months. Frimley Park and Cornwall Park are short drives away and provide additional green spaces and gardens for picnics or relaxation.
What Visitors Often Say
Families appreciate the large fenced playground and the convenience of free barbecues and picnic tables right next to Splash Planet. Many note that the combination of play equipment, sports fields and walking paths makes it easy to spend a full day at the park.
Visitors often mention the pleasant rose gardens and stream as nice spots for a quiet walk after active play or sport. The park is described as well maintained and welcoming for children of different ages and abilities.
Where to Learn More
Hastings District Council – Windsor Park: Official page with field maps, facility details and booking information.
Hastings District Council – Playgrounds: List of all council playgrounds including Windsor Park (Lions).
Hawke’s Bay Tourism – Windsor Park Playground: Additional visitor information on the playground and surrounding area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dogs allowed in Windsor Park?
Windsor Park is not a designated off-leash dog exercise area. Dogs must follow Hastings District Council rules, which generally require them to be under control and on a lead in playground and sports areas.
Is parking free at Windsor Park?
Yes, parking is free in the designated off-street areas. Motorised vehicles are not permitted on the grassed reserve areas.
What are the opening hours?
The park is open from dawn to dusk with no entry fees. Exact times vary with seasons and daylight.
Can I book the sports fields or facilities?
Sports fields and some facilities can be booked through Hastings District Council. Check the council website or contact customer services for availability and fees.
Is the playground suitable for all ages?
The Lions Community Playground includes equipment for toddlers through to older children, with inclusive features for varying abilities.
Are there toilets and water available?
Yes, public toilets and a drinking water tap are located near the playground area.
Is the park accessible for wheelchairs?
The playground has wheelchair-friendly surfacing and inclusive play equipment. Paths around the park are generally suitable for mobility aids.
Are barbecues provided?
Free-to-use barbecues and picnic tables are available under mature trees near the playground.
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