Regional parks notices

In May 2024, we will close Hays Road, which is a thoroughfare between Wrights Road (off Main North Road) and Taylors Road.

We will permanently close the existing gate at the Taylors Road carpark.

Access to the trail bike park via Taylors Road will remain open.

The Hays Road carpark will remain available for swimmers, walkers and cyclists to park.

These changes allow us to reduce through-traffic and provide a safer, more open recreation space that is simpler and more cost-effective to maintain.

Signage is now up to inform park users about these changes.

Over the next few weeks, we will be working on trees in the McLeans Forest area, thinning the tree canopy to promote the growth and vigour of our commercial pine plantations.

This will impact certain mountain bike, motocross and walking tracks that intersect with the pine stands.

Tracks will still be open, but please be aware of contractors in the area and follow any crew instructions.

Stage 1 pine harvesting at Lake Takapō/Tekapo has been completed. All the tracks are open for your use.

More information about the harvest and replanting of Lake Tekapo/Takapō Regional Park.

Asbestos-containing material (ACM) has been discovered in an old dumping site in Waimakariri River Regional Park.

We have been advised by contaminated land experts that as long as the material remains undisturbed, the risk to human health is very low.

The contaminated area is on the north bank of the Waimakariri River, west of Downs Road (see map). The park will remain open, but please avoid this area. Warning signage has been placed in the area.

We are working on a containment and removal plan for the contaminated material. We will provide updates on this process and what it means for park users.

Asbestos is very harmful to human health. To minimise harm, please do not disturb or come into contact with the waste in any way.