- Ōpaheke Park officially opened Tuesday 17 June
- The park features 2km of walking paths, pump track, and a dedicated dog run area
- Clever design features will help prevent the impacts of flooding for nearby residents
Papakura locals have a new passive park to enjoy thanks to Papakura Local Board, and it’s not just a greenspace for walking the dog or riding your bike. At 19 hectares in size, Ōpaheke Park is one of the largest developed parks by council in South Auckland. It offers something for everyone – wide green fields, 2km of walking paths, 50,000 new plants and trees, wetlands, and a pump track for the kids.
What makes this park special is its clever design which helps keep nearby homes safe from flooding. When it rains heavily, water needs somewhere to go. Instead of rushing through existing drains and flooding streets, Ōpaheke Park plays a protective role by holding excess rainwater to help prevent flooding during storms. This helps reduce the impact on houses in nearby low-lying areas and homes at the base of Red Hill.
The park is designed to soak up water during storms and slowly let it flow back into the environment. Less pressure on drains and pipes – and less chance of flood damage. On dry days, it looks like a regular park. But during heavy rain which is becoming more frequent in Auckland, it quietly does an important job.
Papakura Local Board Chair, Brent Catchpole says the park is a great example of smart planning.
“It’s a space where families can exercise, play and relax, but also somewhere that helps with flood control”.
Building the park took years of planning and design. Auckland Council, local iwi, and stormwater design experts worked together to shape the land in a way that respects nature and supports local history. The space includes an extensive stream network, sculptured earth mounds and signage to explain the area’s significance.
As the effects of climate change continue, smart designed parks like this become more important. Warmer weather is bringing more intense rainfall, and cities need smart ways to manage it. Ōpaheke Park shows how parks can do more than just provide a play space – they can also act as purpose built flood control.
Officially open to the public from 17 June, the park is already popular with walkers, families, and sports teams at the nearby fields. It’s a place to enjoy today, that serves a greater purpose in protecting the future.
For more information visit the main Auckland Council website.
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