Widgeon Park Reserve Draft Concept Development Plan

A development plan outlining a long-term vision for Widgeon Park Reserve was adopted by elected members in the Community & Environment Committee on 12 March 2026.
Thanks to everyone that took part in the engagement process — by submitting feedback, attending drop‑in sessions and sharing local knowledge. This input has helped shape development plans that reflect community values and priorities.

>> Read the final Widgeon Park Reserve Development Plan

>> Read the community engagement summary for Widgeon Park Development Plan

>> Read public feedback submitted online for Widgeon Park Draft Development Plan.

>> Read community feedback submitted via email (including local school students)

What happens next?

Once public engagement closed, we reviewed the feedback and made further changes to the concept plan based on the information we received. The final concept development plan was then presented to and adopted by the Community & Environment Committee on the 12 March 2026.

The implementation of the plan will likely involve a staged approach (so will not happen all at once and will depend on available funding) but having a clear vision in place will ensure a cohesive way forward.

Background and vision

Widgeon Park spans 29.4 hectares and an expansive, mostly flat open grassland with mature exotic vegetation adjacent to the Kawarau River. It provides accessible spaces for recreation for the adjoining residential neighbourhoods of Lake Hayes Estate, Bridesdale and Shotover Country.

The reserve currently provides access to the Kawarau River with popular swimming holes in summer and the well-loved Twin Rivers Trail which is part of the Great Rides network enabling recreational and commuting opportunities.

The long-term vision for Widgeon Park is to provide greater community connection to the space with improved access and trail networks. It looks to provide a variety of passive and active recreational opportunities for a range of ages and abilities. The plan aims to enhance biodiversity with planting and pest control while protecting the unique natural and rural open space character of the reserve.

Adopted Concept Plan Map of Widgeon Park Reserve (click on map to view larger version)

Got a question?

If you have a question, please submit it on the form below and we'll get it answered as soon as possible. All questions and answers will be published for everyone to see.