24 Jul 2024

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The next stage of redevelopment at historic Lancaster Park has kicked off.

More than 11,000 native trees and shrubs will be planted this season by Christchurch City Council, local residents and stakeholders on the western side of the former stadium site. A secondary path will also be installed throughout the area.

The Lancaster Park redevelopment project began in 2021 with the sports fields back in play for rugby, football and cricket in 2022.  

The historic Memorial Gates built in 1924 to commemorate the sacrifice of Canterbury athletes during World War 1 were rededicated last year and an Arc of History was also installed with a series of panels showcasing highlights from the Park such as Peter Snell’s 800m world record.

Interim Chief Executive Mary Richardson and Mayor Phil Mauger help out with planting at Lancaster Park. 

Head of Parks Rupert Bool said residents may have started noticing activity on site with planting launching the next stage of Lancaster Park’s redevelopment. 

“We know how important Lancaster Park is to Christchurch and so it’s been great to have a whole array of people contribute – from the entire Council parks unit, Chief Executive and Mayor to local residents, stakeholders and the community.”

Council parks staff planting at Lancaster Park.

The planting day last week was held with the new Council parks in-house maintenance team to coincide with the mawharu phase of the maramataka (Māori moon calendar). The maramataka is traditionally used to guide activities such as planting and this time of year is a time of high energy, and a good time for planting and connection with the wider community.

Mr Bool said the Council has chosen native plants that are either endemic to Christchurch or that will be well suited to grow at the site.

“Charleston doesn’t have a lot of canopy cover because of how industrial the area is so these new trees at Lancaster Park will play an important role in increasing coverage in the area, as well as the wider city,” he said.  

“We’ve made sure the trees are planted in spaces that won’t impact the sports fields once they mature but will add to the amenity of the park and give off appropriate shade in summer.”

The next stage of development will be the construction of the changing rooms and a community facility in the north-east corner of the Park which will get underway towards the end of this year.

Once complete, there will be sports fields, changing rooms and toilets, a community building, a half sports court, exercise equipment and a sports-themed playground at Lancaster Park.

Find out more here.