Sir Stanley Whitehead Park

• Nelson
• Walks & Hikes

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Sir Stanley Whitehead Park is an extension of the track to the Centre of New Zealand. After a short uphill stroll to the viewing platform, adorned in a large white pin that identifies the central trig point from the 1870’s, you can continue along the ridge to Sir Stanley Whitehead Reserve.

Just down from the summit of the Centre of New Zealand you’ll see a signpost, connecting you with the Walters Bluff subdivision via open farmland and hilly pastures. As you follow the ridge, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the Brook Valley, Nelson City, Tasman Bay and the Western Ranges, before reaching a zig zag track that takes you onto the bluff. From here, you may continue to Atawhai Drive, or head downhill to explore Founders Heritage Park or the Miyazu Gardens.

The Sir Stanley Whitehead Park route is dog-friendly and can be completed in approximately 2-3 hours.

How to get there: The Sir Stanley Whitehead Park route is accessible via the Centre of New Zealand walking track, at Botanical Hill in Nelson City. You can also access the track in the other direction from the base of Walters Bluff.

Photo credits: Jess Harvey.