Between Dairy Flat and Coatesville, the park at Green Road is becoming a much-loved spot for locals, a place where community, nature and recreation come together under wide open skies.
A park shaped by people
At the heart of the park are the local groups who bring it to life. Each one contributes something special, helping to create a space that’s welcoming for everyone.
The North Shore Model Aero Club has made the park its home base, where members meet to fly model planes and share their passion with newcomers of all ages.
“Green Road Park has been our home for more than 28 years and being part of the expanding park connects us with the community — it’s a wonderful place to fly, have fun, and to welcome new members to our club,” says model club member Robert Berger.
The North Harbour Pony Club Silverdale Branch also uses the park as the open fields and trails provide the ideal setting for lessons, events and casual rides.
Photo courtesy of Coatesville Chronicle.
The Friends of Green Road group focuses on caring for the land, guiding planting projects, track improvements and community events that keep the park looking its best.
"This year, with help from two local schools and our amazing volunteers, we’ve planted 4,800 plants and cleared hundreds of square metres of privet.
“We’re always eager to welcome new members, especially young people and kids, as the park is an intergenerational resource that will grow and evolve for years to come,” says Friends of Green Road Chair Mike Rowe.
Pest Free Coatesville volunteers help native wildlife by controlling pests and weeds and supporting the North-West Wildlink, a network across Auckland that lets birds and other wildlife move safely between parks, streams and reserves.
“This park is part of the North-West Wildlink. Every trap and weeding session makes a real difference,” says Pest Free Coatesville’s Gary Langridge.
A park guided by community
The park’s development is shaped by the Green Road Masterplan, which was created through consultation by Rodney Local Board with the local community. The masterplan sets out a long-term vision for the park to create a destination everyone can enjoy.
The local board has been closely involved in guiding and investing in the park’s future. From new access points and pathways to environmental restoration and early park development, the local board’s ongoing work is helping turn the masterplan into reality.
Explore your local escape
Now it’s your turn to discover it. Whether you come on foot, bike or horseback, there’s plenty of room to unwind and reconnect with nature.
A new pedestrian entrance off Sunnyside Road makes it easier to explore, with a safe crossing and a more walkable, welcoming entry. While there’s no parking at this gate, it’s ideal for those arriving on foot or by bike. The main carpark on Green Road has vehicle and horse float spaces, plus a trail map to help plan your route.
Trails and rural charm
The park’s growing trail network, colour-coded for walkers, runners and riders, winds through farmland and alongside the Rangitopuni Stream. As it’s still a working farm, young cattle are grazing. Dogs are welcome on a leash, but take care around livestock, leave gates as you find them, and enjoy the rural charm that makes the park special.
What’s next for the park?
Guided by the masterplan and through local board investment and support, more improvements are on the way.
- Waka Kotahi will begin pest plant control and fencing this year, followed by wetland and riparian planting next winter.
- Planning is underway for a toilet facility, expected within two years.
- New pedestrian and vehicle bridges will be built this summer, along with upgraded track surfaces.
- Trail signage and maps will be refreshed to make exploring even easier.
Get involved
Want to know more or join one of the park’s community groups?
- North Shore Model Aero Club – visit nsmac.org.nz or email nsmac.team@gmail.com
- North Harbour Pony Club Silverdale Branch – visit silverdaleponyclub.com or email silverdaleponyclub@gmail.com
- Friends of Green Road – email green.road.park.supsociety@gmail.com
- Pest Free Coatesville – email pestfree@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz
To explore more Rodney parks, visit the council website at Find a park or beach.
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