In 2023, Isthmus Group was engaged to prepare a masterplan for Kilbirnie Park as directed by the Suburban Reserves Management Plan. This process was also informed by a 2021 council decision to allocate $1.5M from the Charles Plimmer Bequest for open space upgrades and $500K for play space renewal. In 2022, following the results of a Wellington city skate feasibility study, a further $5.64M was allocated to support development of a new skatepark within Kilbirnie Park.

After significant engagement with a diverse range of stakeholders and the community, the masterplan was completed at the end of 2023. It provides a guiding framework for future development of the park over time, subject to funding decisions made through the Council’s Long-term Plan and Annual Plan. More information about the Council’s Long-term Plan process can be found here.

Informed by significant engagement throughout the past year with a diverse range of stakeholders, the Kilbirnie Park Masterplan was completed at the end of 2023. This document sets up the framework for future development of the park, subject to funding decisions made through the Council’s Long-term Plan and Annual Plan processes.

Thank you to everyone who provided feedback on the concept design options for the masterplan. You can read a summary of the community feedback here.

The masterplan provides an aspirational 30+ year vision and framework for the future of Kilbirnie Park.

The short-term priorities outlined in the masterplan to be delivered within existing funding include:

• Delivery of a new skatepark
• Renewal of the community play space
• Loop track around the sportsfields, with informal play opportunities
• Working with mana whenua for opportunities to celebrate Ākau Tangi Pā
• Improving the path network, planting, landscaping and consolidating carparking

The long-term vision of the masterplan is to create a cohesive, vibrant, and accessible community and recreation hub that prioritises safety, embraces diversity, and nurtures play. The plan provides one potential future (and concept design) for the park, but it is intended to be adaptable to future trends, opportunities, and funding decisions.

The survey has now concluded.