News Release 
Thursday 27 February 2014

Parks Week set to connect locals with nature

Rotorua District Council is supporting the annual Parks Week taking place across New Zealand and Australia from 3 to 9 March.

The event celebrates the important role that parks play in contributing to the health of communities, with a range of events being planned at parks throughout the two countries.

RDC Tokorangi Forest manager, Julianne Wilkinson, said this year’s campaign message is ‘Connect with Nature’, which encourages the community to get outside, make the most of our beautiful parks and green spaces, and connect with different facets of our natural environment.

“Visiting a local park is a great way to meet people and hold activities for whanau, friends and neighbours.

“We have some awesome parks in Rotorua, and this is the week where everyone in our community should take ownership of the beautiful parks and green spaces our city has to offer.”

Deputy mayor Dave Donaldson, who is leading the development of Council’s Sport & Recreation strategy, said Parks Week was a time to celebrate the outstanding places residents have to play in and the surrounding recreation opportunities on offer, both cornerstones of the Rotorua 2030 vision and goals.

“I urge Rotorua locals to get involved in events and activities taking place over Parks Week, or simply take the opportunity to visit a local park and enjoy quality time with family and friends.”

Local events happening during Park Week include Plunket Walking Group at Hannah’s Bay Reserve on Tuesday [4 March] at 10.30am; Otonga School Gala at Jackson Park on Thursday [6 March] from 5pm; Off-Road ½ Marathon at Whakarewarewa Forest on Sunday from 9am; Te Koutu Community Day at Karenga Park on Sunday [9 March] from11am; and Music at the Rotunda at Government Gardens from 1pm.

ENDS

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