Naenae will come alive on Saturday 20 September as the community gathers to celebrate the opening of the redeveloped Walter Mildenhall Park.

The opening of the park marks the completion of the Whakatupu Ngaengae project to revitalise Naenae’s town centre which has been a partnership between community and Council.

Alongside the remodelled Walter Mildenhall Park, the town centre now boasts the award-winning Te Ngāengae Pool + Fitness complex and Te Mako Naenae Community Centre. As well as each serving a specific purpose, the three projects together are designed to improve the functionality, flow, vibrancy and safety of the town centre.

The event runs from 10am-2pm and includes:

• Opening speeches and formalities
• Free sausage sizzle
• Live music and DJ sets with DJ Shan and rangatahi artists
• Pre-school storytelling sessions with Naenae Library
• Basketball drills with Capital Basketball and the Wellington Saints
• Market stalls, local performances and lots of family-friendly fun
• Free bike tune-ups by Free-Ride
• Craft workshops where you can create your own Pacific-inspired tote bag
• 100 native plants to give away

Mayor Campbell Barry says completing the Whakatupu Ngāengae programme is a proud milestone for Council and the community.

"When the original pool closed in 2019, Naenae’s town centre took a real hit. Since then, the community’s been clear about what’s needed and we've worked together to make it happen.

"The reopening of Walter Mildenhall Park marks the final step in a major effort to bring life back to the heart of Naenae."

The upgraded Walter Mildenhall Park features sheltered shared kai areas, enclosed play spaces and accessibility features.

The design was significantly shaped by community input which saw the Naenae Community Advisory Group and Council work closely with residents to create a space which reflects the needs and aspirations of those who will use it.

Lyn Bareta, Chair of the Naenae Community Advisory Group, says the new park is a great example of what can be achieved through collaboration.

"Naenae people have been at the heart of this journey from the very beginning. A number of local businesses, families and individuals who have deep connections to Naenae have made generous donations to enhance aspects of the park. It shows what can be achieved when the community and Council work together.

"It’s help create a space for families, tamariki and rangatahi to enjoy, and a place that reflects who we are. We’re so excited to welcome everyone to celebrate this milestone with us."

Information about the event can be found here

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