Hagley Park, Christchurch (2024) - Images, Timings

Hagley Park, Christchurch Overview

Nestled in the middle of Christchurch, Hagley Park is a perfect place for a relaxing afternoon stroll or a midday picnic with family and friends. It is a sprawling 165-hectare green space - the largest in the city - and is divided into two parts – north and south Hagley. It also houses the beautiful Rose Garden, the Christchurch Botanical gardens and the Lakes Victoria and Albert. Locals frequent this place to relax during the weekend or for sports activities such as walking, running and cycling.

Hagley Park is also home to various flora and fauna – one can hear birds chirping and see ducks waddling around in the Avon River, which flows through the park. There are also a variety of unique and beautiful trees, which come into full bloom during the spring months. The tranquil lakes, the serene river and the sound of birds are sure to relieve you of all your stress and worries. It is a nature and sports lover’s delight, with over eight kilometres of walking and running track lined with trees and shrubs surrounding the perimeter. Moreover, it houses the Hagley Oval Cricket Ground, which has seen some top-quality international cricket. One can also take a quiet boat ride down the river, right in the middle of a busy city!

History

The park was named after Hagley Park, the British estate of Lord Lyttelton, who first established the settlement of Christchurch when the English first arrived in New Zealand. They also settled next to the Avon River, and their quarters still exist to this day, called Settlers Corner. This park was later set aside as a green space for the residents of Christchurch in the 1850s and then gradually developed as a leisure space.

Activities

The park is open all day and has no entry fees.
One can spend the day here exploring the sprawling park as well as the Rose Garden and Botanical Garden. Locals can be seen spending a sunny afternoon here with friends and family, playing and running around with pets and kids.
Anyone who loves the outdoors will be spoilt for choice here – ranging from a lakeside picnic to cycling, running or taking a stroll around the 8 km track along the perimeter of the park – one can spend a full day here.
Facilities for golf, tennis, croquet and netball are also available on payment. You could explore the Avon river by either a peaceful boat or punt ride if you’re in the mood for a lazy half an hour, or by kayak if you want to burn off that picnic lunch!
There are also multiple walking tours available in the Park, which highlight the important places of the place.

Places to Visit

Popular places to see around the park include The Canterbury Museum, which is inside the park, and the Canterbury Earthquake National Memorial, which is an 8-minute walk from the Museum.
The Peacock Fountain, located at the entrance of the Botanical Garden radiates its own majestic aura and stands out as a landmark while adding to the beauty of the place.
The Margaret Mahy Family Playground, located 1.5 km away from the Museum is a fun place for kids of all ages, with a variety of swings and activities.
The Hagley Oval is a must-visit for the cricket lover – the pitch has seen some great cricket over the years!
Segway tours are also available for the park and the city, in case you have less time on your hands, or are just looking for new ways to go around places.

How To Reach Hagley Park

One can use the public transport system of Christchurch to reach Hagley Park.
The Riccarton Ave bus station near Hagley Ave is located inside the park.
There are multiple cab services that run in the city, including Uber.
If you want to use your own vehicle, there are parking spots available on Riccarton Ave and outside the perimeter of the park.
They are open from 7 am to 8:30 pm most days, and till 6:30 pm from April to September.
The park is accessible by bicycle as well.