Last updated July 2026
Mair Park is a forested reserve beside the Hātea River on the edge of Whangārei’s central city. Donated to the city in 1914 by Robert Mair, it serves as a key junction on the Hātea River walkway and the main access point for tracks into Parihaka Scenic Reserve. The park offers a flat riverside path, steeper bush tracks, a children’s playground, BBQ facilities and free parking, making it popular for short walks, family outings and wildlife spotting along the river.
Practical Information
| Location | Rurumoki Street, Regent, Whangārei |
| Distance from city centre | 1.3 km via the Hātea River walkway (about 30 minutes walk) |
| Hours | Open daily |
| Cost | Free |
| Facilities | Children’s playground, BBQ areas, public toilets, free car parking on Rurumoki Street, picnic tables |
| Dog access | Dogs allowed on-leash (not permitted on Parihaka tracks) |
| Track connections | Hātea River walkway (Town Basin and Whangārei Falls directions); Drummond Track (currently closed for repairs) and Dobbie Track to Parihaka Scenic Reserve |
| Managed by | Whangarei District Council |
About Mair Park
Mair Park occupies a natural bush gully next to the Hātea River. Mature lowland forest surrounds the main grassed area, creating a forested setting close to the city centre. The park was gifted in 1914 by local native plant enthusiast Robert Mair and has long been a popular picnic and recreation spot.
The flat, gravel-surfaced Hātea River walkway passes through the park, linking the Town Basin marina with Whangārei Falls further north. A bridge crosses the river into Parihaka Scenic Reserve. From Mair Park, the Dobbie Track climbs through native bush to the Parihaka summit, which offers panoramic views over the city and harbour. The steeper Drummond Track is currently closed for repairs.
Free parking is available on Rurumoki Street. The park is an off-leash dog exercise area in parts but dogs must remain on-leash on the Hātea River walkway and are prohibited from Parihaka tracks. The river supports ducks, eels and other wildlife, and feeding the ducks remains a traditional activity for local children.
Mair Park Playground
The well-maintained children’s playground sits in the main facilities area beside the river. It provides a safe, shaded space for families and is complemented by nearby BBQ facilities, picnic tables and public toilets. The riverside location allows children to combine play with duck feeding and short flat walks along the Hātea River walkway, making the park a convenient spot for relaxed family outings without leaving the city.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors appreciate Mair Park as an easy starting point for both gentle riverside strolls and more challenging climbs into Parihaka. Families highlight the playground’s convenient location next to the river and BBQ areas, while walkers value the direct connection to the wider Hātea River walkway network.
Locals recommend arriving early on weekends to secure parking and enjoy quieter conditions on the tracks. Many note the park’s role as a practical gateway to bush walks without needing to drive out of town.
Where to Learn More
Whangarei District Council – Mair Park: Official page with facilities, access details and links to connected tracks.
Whangarei District Council – Parihaka Scenic Reserve: Current track status, parking information and summit access details.
Whangarei District Council – Hātea River walkway: Route sections, distances and connection points including Mair Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Mair Park located?
Rurumoki Street, Regent, Whangārei, with free parking at the Rurumoki Street entrance.
Is Mair Park free to visit?
Yes, entry and parking are free.
What facilities are available at the playground?
A well-maintained children’s playground, BBQ areas, picnic tables and public toilets are located in the main grassed area beside the river.
Which walks start from Mair Park?
The flat Hātea River walkway runs in both directions, while the Dobbie Track climbs to Parihaka summit. The Drummond Track is currently closed for repairs.
Are dogs allowed at Mair Park?
Dogs are permitted on-leash in the park and along the Hātea River walkway but are not allowed on Parihaka tracks.
How far is Mair Park from the Town Basin?
The Hātea River walkway section from the Town Basin to the Mair Park bridge is 1.3 km and takes about 30 minutes one way.
Is there river access at Mair Park?
Yes, the park borders the Hātea River with a bridge crossing and riverbank areas popular for picnics and wildlife viewing.
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