Hagley Park, Christchurch facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Hagley Park, Christchurch |
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Aerial view of Hagley Park, showing (from top) North Hagley Park, the Botanic Gardens, and South Hagley Park
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| Type | Public park |
| Location | Christchurch |
| Area | 1.65 km2 |
| Created | 1856 |
| Operated by | Christchurch City Council |
| Status | Open all year |
Hagley Park is the biggest urban open space in Christchurch, New Zealand. It's like a giant backyard for the city, covering about 165 hectares! The park was created way back in 1855 by the local government. They made a special rule that Hagley Park would be "reserved forever as a public park." This means it will always be open for everyone to enjoy. The park is famous for its many trees and wide-open grassy areas. It was named after another beautiful park, Hagley Park in England, which belonged to Lord Lyttelton, an important person who helped set up the Canterbury area.
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Where is Hagley Park?
Hagley Park is located just east of the main city area of Christchurch. It's surrounded by the Avon River / Ōtākaro and several busy roads. One of its longest edges is along Deans Avenue, which is part of the well-known "Four Avenues" that mark the central city. To the west, you'll find the suburb of Riccarton.
The Avon River / Ōtākaro naturally forms the northern and northeastern borders of the park. Moorhouse Avenue and Hagley Avenue create the southern and southeastern edges. On the eastern side, the Avon River makes a big loop into the park, stretching for about two kilometers.
Christchurch Botanic Gardens
Inside this river loop, you'll find the amazing Christchurch Botanic Gardens. These gardens cover about 21 hectares and are full of beautiful flowers and trees from all over the world. Many bridges connect the gardens to the rest of Hagley Park. The gardens are a great place to see different plants and spot many birds that come to visit.
Two other important places are also inside the river's loop: the Canterbury Museum and Christ's College.
Parts of the Park
Hagley Park is divided into three main sections by two major roads.
- The smallest part is Little Hagley Park, which is about 7 hectares. It's located north of Harper Avenue.
- South of Harper Avenue is North Hagley Park, the largest section, covering about 87 hectares.
- South Hagley Park is about 70 hectares and is located south of North Hagley Park, separated by Riccarton Avenue.
Park History and Use
In its early days, Hagley Park was even used for horse races! It has always been a popular spot for large gatherings and events.
Big Events and Exhibitions
- In 1882, the park hosted the Great Industrial Exposition.
- From 1906 to 1907, it was the site of the New Zealand International Exhibition.
- In 1906, the Australasian tennis championships (now known as the Australian Open) were held here. A famous player named Tony Wilding won the singles event.
Modern Day Activities
Today, Hagley Park is still a busy place!
- It often hosts visiting circuses and outdoor concerts.
- The Ellerslie Flower Show, a big garden event, has been held in North Hagley Park since 2008.
- The Electric Avenue Music Festival also takes place here.
- You can find a golf course (Hagley Golf Club) in North Hagley Park.
- South Hagley Park has several netball courts, the Hagley Oval cricket ground, and a heliport for Christchurch Hospital.
- Every Saturday, a free 5km run called parkrun takes place in North Hagley Park. It's organized by volunteers and welcomes everyone, no matter their fitness level.
A Place for Remembrance
Hagley Park was also the location for a special national memorial service. About 20,000 people gathered there to remember those affected by the Christchurch mosque shootings. Important people like the New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and singer Yusuf Islam (also known as Cat Stevens) attended this service.
Images for kids
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North Hagley Park, late afternoon in winter
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Little Hagley Park (north of Harper Ave) in summer
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Foggy morning, North Hagley Park
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A black swan and model yachts on Victoria Lake
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North Hagley Park in autumn
