Let’s get park classifications on the right track

Published on 20 September 2024

We’re doing a little behind-the-scenes admin on Palmerston North’s parks and reserves, as part of a process required under the Reserves Act 1977. We’re needing to classify a number of our reserves to align with how they are being used, whether that’s for recreation, community events, or even a bit of stormwater management (yes, parks can help prevent flooding too!). 

Kathy Dever-Tod, Palmerston North City Council's Manager of Parks and Reserves, says this is about making sure our parks are set up for success. 

“Classifying reserves is an important step to make sure they’re protected and managed in line with their purpose. If a park’s classified as 'recreation', it’ll stay that way – perfect for sports, playgrounds, and community hangouts. On the other hand, 'local purpose' reserves can focus on specific tasks like stormwater management." 

All the reserves we’re proposing to classify have already been managed as if they had these classifications. Now we just need to make it official under the Reserves Act. 

One that is a bit different is Pari Reserve (pictured above). Off Aokautere Drive, it features a pond, wetlands and a short walking track. While it’s a good spot for a stroll, it also helps manage and drain rainwater naturally, preventing flooding and keeping the surrounding area safe and dry. Think of this reserve as nature's way of handling a big rainstorm. 

Mrs Dever-Tod says that’s why we’re proposing to reclassify some parts of Pari Reserve from recreation to local purpose (stormwater). 

“It’ll help us manage its stormwater duties better while still keeping it open for all to enjoy. Pari Reserve’s doing double duty – stormwater and recreation. In the future, we might need to work on infrastructure or manage the area in ways that the recreation classification doesn’t easily allow – so this reclassification will let us focus on both.” 

She says there’s no need to worry though as the walking tracks and natural beauty you love about Pari Reserve aren’t going anywhere. This is just about making sure the paperwork reflects the work the reserve is already doing and that when we need to manage stormwater in the reserve, it is straightforward. 

To see the full list of reserves and their proposed classifications, head to pncc.govt.nz/classifyingreserves 

If you think any of the classifications don’t quite fit, we’d love to hear from you by 5pm on Wednesday 23 October. 

Submissions can be made in writing or by filling out the form on our website.