Hagley Park is Christchurch's largest urban open space (165 hectares). The park was created in 1855 and is characterised by mature exotic trees and broad open spaces today. Hagley Park was named after the country estate of Lord Lyttelton, who became chairman of the Canterbury Association in March 1850. Lyttelton was also named after him, although he never visited NZ.
The park is on the west side of Central Christchurch and sits within the original box laid out in 1850 and defined by the Four Avenues. It is divided into three sections, the smallest and most scenic being Little Hagley Park at the northern edge, between Harper Avenue and the Avon River / Ōtākaro. On the south side of Harper Avenue is Hagley Park North, separated from Hagley Park South by Riccarton Avenue. Deans Avenue marks the park's west side, and the river's natural path provides the northern and eastern boundaries of Hagley Park North. Hagley Avenue and Moorehouse Avenue provide Hagley Park South's east and southern boundaries, respectively. Accessing the park from any of these streets and tracks that follow the river is easy.
The Christchurch Botanic Gardens are located within a large U in the river on the east side of Hagley Park North. Several footbridges connect the park and gardens, which are attractive and can easily be added to a visit to the park.
A large part of the park is allocated to sporting activities, including golf in Hagley Park North and extensive sports fields in Hagley Park South. For a visitor, wandering along the pathways of Harper Avenue amongst the blossoming trees in spring and visiting adjacent Little Hagley Park is recommended. Autumn is also colourful, with the preponderance of exotic deciduous trees.
