Explore Victoria Park
Behind the painted silos, a five minute walk from the centre of Waimate, is Victoria Park.
Grab the family and explore the beautiful grounds, there's plenty to see and do for all ages.
It's a great place to go for a walk, have a picnic, camp and utilise the multiple sporting facilities including netball courts, a velodrome, and outdoor bowls. The velodrome is used and enjoyed by national and international cyclists and skaters, as well as the local athletics club.
There’s also a fantastic playground, a camping area, a bird aviary and a wallaby enclosure and public toilets. The playground was designed by children for children.
Keep an eye out for the colourful Waimate rocks hidden around the park, there are also geocache sites throughout.
There is a scented garden for the blind, it's situated over by the sundial and is planted with strong scented plants including Jasmine and Azaleas.
History
The park area was set aside for recreational purposes in 1881, soon after the proclamation of the Borough in 1879.
The construction of a banked cycling track was authorised in February 1891, the oval within the track was levelled and sown in fine grass and the outer area planted in oaks and other English trees. The track and oval have its greatest use on the day of the Caledonian Society's annual games and dancing, and with the formation of the Amateur Athletic Association in the 1920's athletic events have continued to this day.
With the onset of the financial depression of the thirties and the availability of subsidised labour to the Borough Council, it was decided to make a curator's house.
Additions to the park at intervals were the aviary (presented by Mr A Richards of Waihao Downs), the animal closure, the bowling green and pavilion. The original glass house was presented by Dr Galway, an eminent musician from Dunedin who retired in Waimate. The latter glass house has been rebuilt and enlarged and is now called the 'Alex McRae Show House' as a mark of appreciation of his long term service as mayor.
Camping
Victoria Park set in 6.8 hectares in the heart of Waimate is the ideal spot to explore the town and district. Shops, eateries and the swimming pool are within walking distance, and a short drive will take you to the many walks surrounding the town.
For more information on the facilities and charges for this family friendly camping spot click here.
The park is owned and operated by Waimate District Council.