It is well documented that spending time outdoors connecting to nature benefits people’s mental and physical health, and this week residents are encouraged to get their outdoors fix.  

Central’s parks are included in the national ‘Parks Week’ initiative with Sport Otago and Central Otago District Council (CODC) bringing fun free events to the community.

Led by Recreation Aotearoa, Parks Week is a national event about celebrating and activating parks with community-led initiatives. 

CODC libraries are bringing story time to local parks with half an hour morning sessions (one per location) on March 4, 5 and 6 in Alexandra, Cromwell, Maniototo and Roxburgh. 

More free fun is available for kids, with Sport Central’s inflatables up for ‘Bounce in the Park’, in Cromwell’s Alpha St Park today (March 3) from 3 -7pm. 

There’s a free group fitness circuit class in Pioneer Park, Wednesday March 5 at 9.15am hosted by NRG Alexandra personal trainer Teresa Noble. It will include options for all fitness levels.

Central Otago District mayor Tamah Alley said her green space of choice was the Alexandra Airport Reserve.

“I love the colours and views, and the light on early morning and evening walks. Also the biking, and the changing leaves in autumn.” 

The Central App team has a variety of favourite parks and outdoor spaces, some highlights are the River Track between Alexandra and Clyde, Cromwell’s Alpha Street playground, Omakau Domain and Naseby Forest. 

There are more than 65 parks in Central Otago. PHOTO: Supplied 

Check out The Central App playground, places to visit and cycling | walking listings for more ideas of spots to explore. 

Find more information and resources on Parks Week online, and use the #parksweek2025 in social posts

Visit CODC Parks, Reserves and Playgrounds webpage

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Contact reporter@centralapp,nz