On August 31st, 2005, after passionate advocacy from the community, nearly 6 hectares of land in the heart of Akaroa was officially designated as a recreation reserve, now known as Stanley Park. This decision, formalized by the Banks Peninsula District Council, preserved the land as a public treasure for generations to come.

Stanley Park features a delightful network of informal walking tracks, each offering breathtaking views of the harbour from expansive grasslands. These trails wind their way through lush areas of bush, creating the perfect escape for nature lovers.

The journey to preserve this land began with the inaugural meeting of the Stanley Park Reserve Committee in September 2005. Since then, committee members have remained dedicated advocates, working hand-in-hand with the council and, more recently, the Parks team, to bring their vision to life.

The vision for Stanley Park is simple yet ambitious: to maintain a harmonious blend of open space and natural beauty, with grazing sheep and native bush surrounding peaceful walking tracks. The park is designed to be a space for all—whether you're looking to picnic, play games, or simply bask in the stunning views. The bush areas are a haven for children, offering the perfect backdrop for building huts and playing imaginative games.

Access to the park is made easy with four distinct entrances. Over the years, the park has flourished, thanks to continuous efforts in planting trees, developing new tracks, and providing access to nature for the community. Today, Stanley Park is a beloved spot, regularly frequented by locals.

The committee members continue their hands-on approach, often walking the park to maintain trap stations, clear invasive plants like gorse and thistles, and collaborate with the Council Parks Team to keep the space thriving. They’re not only preserving the park’s natural beauty—they’re also ensuring it remains a welcoming and safe space for everyone.

Exciting upgrades are underway to make the park even more accessible. A new track, designed with easier gradients, will cater to all fitness levels. This upgraded track, starting at the main entrance above the fire station, will include the replacement of steps, improved drainage, and resurfacing. It’s expected to become a popular route for locals heading to the southern end of town, offering a loop track for those seeking a scenic walk.

The Reserve Committee’s plans don’t stop there. They continue to advocate for improvement to all the tracks, ensuring they stand up to the wet winter months, while continuing to plant more native species. The goal is to enhance the park’s natural beauty, while preserving the stunning, uninterrupted views that make Stanley Park a true community gem.

We are fortunate to have a passionate and dedicated Reserve Committee, working alongside Parks staff, to continuously maintain and improve Stanley Park for the enjoyment of the community.