What do belly dancing, Tai Chi and trolley derbies have in common? They’re all activities that you can take part in at one of the Whakatāne District’s many public parks during Park Week 2019.
The New Zealand Recreation Association and Parks and Leisure Australia have again teamed up to help organise Parks Week from 9 - 17 March 2019. The week will see councils and other organisations on both sides of the Tasman running events designed to raise awareness of the value of parks and open spaces, and to get people out of their living rooms and enjoying the outdoors.
The Whakatāne District will be hosting a range of free events to celebrate our places and open spaces next month. Whakatāne District Council Manager Places and Open Spaces, Mike Houghton says we're fortunate to have a wealth of public places to be shared and enjoyed.
"Healthy parks are an essential for healthy people and our District has some of the most picturesque reserves in the country," he says. "As well as being good for your physical and mental wellbeing, parks are places where we can connect with others and build stronger families and communities."
Parks Week activities include:
- Trolley Derby, Waiewe Reserve, 9 March
- Book-a-Boo in the Park, Whakatāne Rose Gardens, 12 March
- Ika-Boo in the Park, Murupara Domain, 13 March
- Tai Chi in the Park, Whakatāne Rose Gardens, 14 March
- Guided day walk through Whirinaki Te Pua-a-Tāne Conservation Park, 14 or 15 March
- Yoga in the Park, Whakatāne Rose Gardens, 15 March
- Dance and Musical Concert, Wharaurangi, 16 March
- Outdoor Movie Night, Warren Cole Walkway Amphitheatre, 16 March
- Belly Dance Taster, Whakatāne Rose Gardens, 17 March
Apanui School and the Whakatāne Library have collaborated to bring Te Reo in the Park to the Whakatāne Rose Gardens to celebrate Park Week. Other schools in the District are encouraged to think about how they can be a part of Park Week, and are invited to contact the Council to discuss their involvement.