Last updated July 2026
Bexley Park (also known as Bexley Reserve) provides open space for sports, play and community activities in eastern Christchurch. The park sits near Pages Road and the Avon River, offering easy access for local residents and visitors. It forms part of the city’s post-earthquake redevelopment of former residential red zone land. Facilities include sports fields, a playground and a sealed pump track added in 2023. The adjacent Bexley Wetland adds opportunities for nature observation and walking.
Practical Information
| Location | Eastern Christchurch, near Pages Road and Aranui |
| Access | Car, bike or public transport; parking available nearby |
| Facilities | Sports fields, playground, public toilets, pump track |
| Activities | Soccer and team sports, play, cycling and skating on pump track, walking |
| Dogs | Dog exercise area available (check current rules on ccc.govt.nz) |
| Managed by | Christchurch City Council |
About Bexley Park
Bexley Park occupies former residential land in the Bexley suburb that suffered extensive liquefaction damage during the 2010 and 2011 Canterbury earthquakes. Much of the area was placed in the residential red zone and later cleared. The Christchurch City Council converted portions of the land into public open space as part of recovery efforts.
The park features grass sports fields used by local clubs and casual players, primarily for soccer and other field sports. A dedicated playground provides equipment suitable for children of different ages. Public toilets and open picnic areas support day visits.
In 2023 a sealed pump track opened at Bexley Reserve. The 2,500 square metre facility includes loops for bikes, scooters and skateboards, with an adaptive section suitable for wheelchairs. It provides a new active recreation option in the eastern suburbs.
The park lies close to the Avon River and Bexley Wetland. The wetland supports native birds and offers views across saltmarsh and coastal vegetation. These natural features complement the formal sports areas and contribute to local biodiversity.
History and Red Zone Redevelopment
Bexley was one of the suburbs most severely affected by the 2010–2011 earthquakes. Over 90 percent of homes in parts of the area became uninhabitable due to liquefaction. The land was zoned red and purchased by the Crown, after which the Christchurch City Council developed new parks and reserves.
The transformation of red zone land into Bexley Park and Bexley Wetland formed part of broader eastern Christchurch recovery planning. The resulting green spaces provide recreation while reducing future flood and liquefaction risk for the community.
Activities and Facilities
Sports fields cater to organised teams and informal games. The playground offers safe play equipment for families. The Nigel Mahan Pump Track, opened in 2023, delivers a purpose-built surface for wheeled sports with separate loops for different skill levels.
Walking paths connect the park with the nearby wetland and river corridor. Visitors can observe birdlife and enjoy views toward the Port Hills. The combination of active and passive recreation makes the site suitable for both short visits and longer outings.
What Visitors Often Say
Families appreciate the open fields and playground for casual outings, noting the space feels safe and well maintained for children.
Locals and visitors praise the new pump track as a fun addition that brings energy to the reserve, with many returning regularly for cycling and skating sessions.
Where to Learn More
Christchurch City Council Parks and Gardens: Current information on park facilities, access and maintenance.
Residential Red Zone parks page: Details on Bexley Wetland and other red zone reserves.
Dog exercise areas: Rules and locations for dogs at Bexley Reserve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Bexley Park located?
Bexley Park lies in eastern Christchurch near Pages Road and the suburb of Aranui, close to the Avon River.
What facilities does Bexley Park offer?
The park includes sports fields, a playground, public toilets and the Nigel Mahan Pump Track opened in 2023.
Is there a pump track at Bexley Reserve?
Yes, a 2,500 square metre sealed pump track with loops for bikes, scooters and skateboards opened in 2023.
Can I walk to Bexley Wetland from the park?
The park sits adjacent to Bexley Wetland, allowing easy access for walking and birdwatching.
Are dogs allowed at Bexley Park?
A fenced dog exercise area exists at Bexley Reserve; current rules are listed on the Christchurch City Council website.
How do I get to Bexley Park?
Access is available by car with nearby parking, by bike or via public transport along Pages Road and surrounding routes.
Was Bexley Park created after the earthquakes?
Yes, the park occupies former residential red zone land cleared after the 2010 and 2011 earthquakes and redeveloped by the council.
Who manages Bexley Park?
Christchurch City Council manages the park and provides updates on facilities and any maintenance works.
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