Picnic in the Park
Wellington’s parks will again become a popular location for those wishing to enjoy a family picnic this summer.
The region boasts many public parks perfect for picnickers but with facilities varying between them it is best to consider your options before packing up your picnic basket and hitting the road.
Although most parks offer picnic sites for public use without the need to book in advance, there is no guarantee that these will be available. If your picnic is for more than 10 people it is best to plan ahead and consider contacting the park ranger to book a site.
Belmont Regional Park ranger Jeremy Paterson says the park does not enforce bookings or fees for groups wishing to picnic.
“Picnic tables are used in the park on a first in first served bases, in saying that there are plenty of nice spots within the park to picnic which don't require a table.”
Battle Hill Park ranger Andrew Nevin says that there is a large area set aside within the parks for day use and picnics although the campground is also free to be used by picnickers.
“There are no barbecues but people are welcome to bring their own. Four of the picnic sites and all campsites have fire pads where people can make campfires.”
Mr Nevin says that booking is usually only necessary for bigger events of more than 20-30 people.
“There is always space where families can picnic without booking.”
For groups looking to make use of public barbecues for their summer picnic many parks offer electric or gas barbecues.
Kaitoke Regional Park has free electric barbecues available at their campsite. Greater Wellington Regional Council suggests that groups of 20 or more consider booking the large barbecue shelter during summer months for a small fee.
Public barbecues are also available in Hutt City at Avalon Park, Petone Foreshore, Williams and Bishop Parks.
In Porirua, Aotea Lagoon and Waitangirua Park boast a number of picnic areas with free barbecues.
Porirua City Council parks and reserves manager Bill Inge says that Aotea Lagoon also has two areas available for exclusive use—the Rose Garden or island on the main lagoon.
“This costs $169.03 per day or part day. It would be a fantastic place to use the island for a family or community group picnic—great fun for a private gathering.”
If, however, all you are after when heading off for a family picnic this summer is a nice patch of grass to place your picnic blanket then all of the region’s parks should not disappoint.