The Waverley park is the focus of a major project to upgrade it, build tracks, plant native trees and shrubs and install shelters and equipment to make it a great place to visit for locals and tourists alike.
Rotary Dunedin has rallied the city’s seven Rotary clubs, Rotaract and other volunteers to tackle the project, working alongside Mountain Biking Otago stalwart and track-building expert Hamish Seaton.
So far, the volunteers have put in 500 hours of work on the project since work began early last year, not including working bees for planting.
Leading the project are Rotary Dunedin members Gordon Tucker and Peter Jackson, working alongside Mr Seaton and Dunedin City Council parks and recreation staff, who are delighted with the progress made on the upgrade so far.
Mr Tucker said Mr Seaton and a large team of volunteers had virtually completed the 1km top loop track, which had been smoothed out and gravelled to make it easy to walk on and accessible for prams and wheelchairs.
"The loop track now has a maximum gradient of 3 degrees, which means that most people should be able to walk on it easily, or use wheelchairs," Mr Tucker said.
"And while people are out there getting some exercise, they can enjoy the spectacular 360 degree views over the harbour and the city," he said.
The response of local residents to the project so far had been very positive.
"We have had amazing feedback from locals, who have been telling us it is being used by a lot of people already, which is great to hear."
"So far, we have planted about 1200 natives, all with a maximum height of 3m, to beautify and provide shelter while protecting the view and the neighbours," he said.
The most recent working bee was held over King’s Birthday weekend, when Rotary district 9999 (South Island) district governor Dave McKissock visited the city for a "weekend of connection".
Despite cold and rainy weather, Mr McKissock joined local Rotarians and visitors from Queenstown and Christchurch in planting more than 300 natives at the park.
"It was great to have them here to acknowledge our efforts and take part," Mr Jackson said.
More planting sessions are planned as the winter progresses.
Now that the top loop track is complete, apart from some bedding in, the project will move towards working on building a steeper track from the bottom of the park to Harbour Heights.
"We are hoping to have the track network completed by the end of 2025," he said.
It is hoped future phases of the project will include shelters, seating, a barbecue area and a bike skills track.
