After months of careful planning and construction, the next stage of Alexandra’s Kāmoanahaehae Riverside Park is now complete, offering the community an upgraded space to gather, connect and enjoy the riverside.

The stage of the project centred on the new plaza was acknowledged on Friday (September 26) with a karakia by Whaea Francie Diver, followed by waiata, marking the site as a place of significance and welcoming the community.

The new plaza and surrounding areas feature walkways and seating that Central Otago District Council says creates “inviting spaces and lay[s] the foundation for future cultural and community activities”. 

The area, which connects lower Tarbert Street to the walking and cycling paths, includes new toilets and benches which will have solar-powered ‘smart seats’ for charging devices and public Wi-Fi.

“Kāmoanahaehae has a deep history and today we celebrate more than just a plaza,” Whaea Francie Diver said. 

“The name itself connects us to Haehaeata, the traditional Māori name for Leaning Rock in the Dunstan Mountains, and to the place where the Manuherekia and Clutha River/Mata-au meet."

Alexandra Riverside Park Trust chair Rory McLellan speaking at the opening of Kāmoanahaehae Riverside Park.

Alexandra Riverside Park Trust chair Rory McLellan said the opening marked an important milestone in a project that began in 2011 with concept drawings and the formation of the Riverside Park Trust. 

“Working alongside the Vincent Community Board, we carried out a feasibility study that confirmed strong community support and secured vital funding from Central Lakes Trust, Otago Community Trust, Lottery Grants Board, MBIE, Verdyn Trust, and others,” he said. 

“Seeing the plaza come to life makes every step worthwhile. The next stage of the project will deliver a boardwalk, improved river access and a connection to the Linger & Die area, further transforming the area into a vibrant hub for locals and visitors.”

The development faced some delays due to challenging ground conditions and the site's heritage significance. As part of 'old Alexandra' and the original settlement, the area required careful oversight from Heritage New Zealand, with specific construction protocols followed throughout. Work on the riverbank was also carefully limited to protect fish spawning seasons and local wildlife.

Central Otago mayor Tamah Alley said the completion of the plaza was about more than new amenities, it was “a moment to celebrate Kāmoanahaehae as a place that connects people, history and community”.

The project is a collaboration between the Alexandra Riverside Park Trust, Central Otago District Council, Aukaha and the local community with completion anticipated by early 2026.

Find more about the project here: Kāmoanahaehae - Riverside Park | Let’s Talk Central Otago

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Photos: Supplied