The green jewel at the heart of New Plymouth turned 150 years old in 2026!
On 29 May 1876, a gala opening was held for New Plymouth’s new 35 acre (15ha) Recreation Ground.
There was no lake yet; no Poet’s Bridge; no sportsground.
The following 150 years transformed the park, as it grew and changed in tandem with the city. During that time, the reserve’s name changed to Pukekura Park, several new features and attractions were built, and its size increased to its current 52ha.
Generations of families have enjoyed the tree-lined walks and rowing boats on the main lake, watched events from the sportsground’s terraces, marvelled at summer lights displays, and attended concerts at the Bowl of Brooklands.
As part of the celebrations of this great milestone, we created the videos about Pukekura Park on this webpage for you to enjoy.
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Page last updated: 11:56am Wed 03 June 2026