Kaipara District Council is celebrating the recognition of Harding Park as an exceptional open space following its success in securing the prestigious Green Flag Award®.

The Green Flag Award® is awarded annually to parks and green spaces that meet rigorous global standards for quality. It recognises best practices in park management and celebrates the work of those dedicated to maintaining these important community spaces.

During the award consideration phase, professional judges assess each site in person, evaluating management, sustainability, safety, and overall visitor experience.

Harding Park Committee Chair and Deputy Mayor Gordon Lambeth, says the award reaffirms what locals already know.

“Over the past three years the Committee has worked with staff to restore and return Harding Park as a world-class space to explore, play, learn and enjoy. It’s a special part of Dargaville and contributes to what makes Kaipara a great place to live and visit.”

Glynis McCarthy, Community Services Manager for Kaipara District Council, says the award is a testament to the dedication and care the team puts into Harding Park.

“Many hours of care and thoughtful planning go into ensuring the park continues to be major asset for the Kaipara community. This recognition reflects the pride our team takes in creating a welcoming, well-maintained and safe space for everyone.”

Despite the achievement, the park’s team isn’t stopping here. Upcoming projects include a new playground and further planting to replace pest vegetation as part of ongoing restoration efforts.

About Harding Park

Harding Park is located just south of Dargaville’s town centre on the western bank of the Northern Wairoa River. The park spans approximately 15.67 hectares and offers a variety of attractions, facilities and natural features, including mountain bike tracks, and is home to several community-based organisations including the volunteer-led Dargaville Museum – Te Whare Taonga o Tunatahi, and Kaipara Heritage Machinery Museum. Kaipara's first permanent StoryWalk® was also recently installed. The park adjoins Old Mt Wesley Cemetery and Harding Family Cemetery, and Pou Tu o Te Rangi Historic Reserve (the Pā), administered by Te Uri o Hau. What makes this park so special is the number of diverse activities spread across the grounds.

About the Green Flag Award®

The Green Flag Award® scheme recognises and rewards well-managed parks and green spaces, setting the benchmark standard for the management of recreational outdoor spaces around the world. The award is recognised in 15 countries and is hosted in New Zealand by Recreation Aotearoa. There are currently 28 Green Flag parks in New Zealand.

• The Green Flag Award - Green Flag Award website Green Flag Award website: https://www.greenflagaward.org/

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