Last updated July 2026
The Bledisloe Park in Palmerston North offers an easy riverside and bush setting with a short walkway through native remnants, a swimming hole in the Turitea Stream, and open grass areas for picnics. The park sits on the edge of the city near Massey University and provides quick access to shaded paths and water for locals and visitors alike.
Official council information highlights the park as a cool spot for walks with plenty of native bush and a swimming hole to beat the heat. It connects to the wider Turitea Walkway network for longer outings.
Practical Information
| Location | 119 Tennent Drive, Fitzherbert, Palmerston North |
| Walk length | 0.51 km (Bledisloe Park Walkway); extensions available |
| Difficulty | Easy; flat gravel paths |
| Best for | Short walks, swimming in the stream, family picnics, dog walking |
| Cost | Free |
| Access | Open daily; car parks at Tennent Drive and Massey University Avenue |
| Dogs | On leash only |
About Bledisloe Park
Bledisloe Park features one of Palmerston North’s native bush remnants along the Turitea Stream. The park provides shaded paths, picnic benches, a playground, and river or stream access in a central location close to the city and Massey University.
The setting combines open grass areas under mature trees with bush sections that support native birds. It serves as both a standalone destination for short visits and a link point for longer walks along the Turitea Walkway.
Palmerston North City Council maintains the park with facilities including parking and picnic tables. The site was historically used for swimming and picnics by local families.
Walking at Bledisloe Park
The main Bledisloe Park Walkway is a 0.51 km flat gravel loop rated difficulty 1. It passes through native bush and reaches the Turitea Stream, with three sets of stairs for optional elevation. The trail takes about 30 minutes from the Tennent Drive entrance.
Connections extend the outing: the walkway links to the Bledisloe Park to Old West Road route and the longer Turitea Walkway, which can stretch the experience to around two hours when starting from Summerhill shops. Access points include Tennent Drive and Massey University Avenue.
Swimming at Bledisloe Park
The park includes a swimming hole in the Turitea Stream, promoted by the council as a place to cool off on hot days. Visitors are advised to take togs and enjoy the babbling water and fresh bush setting.
Palmerston North City Council provides detailed water safety guidance: wait 72 hours after rainfall, check for hazards upstream and downstream, enter feet first, and avoid jumping or diving into unknown depths. Rivers and streams can change quickly with strong currents, cold water, and hidden objects even when they appear calm.
Always check current conditions and follow Water Safety NZ recommendations. The council notes that a safe rescue is land-based only.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors appreciate the easy, shaded paths through native bush and the convenient swimming hole for a quick cool-down. Many locals use the park for short family outings or dog walks rather than long hikes.
Practical notes include flat gravel surfaces suitable for most abilities, good parking at multiple entrances, and the value of combining the short loop with nearby Turitea tracks. Water quality and safety checks are frequently mentioned before swimming.
Where to Learn More
Palmerston North City Council – Bledisloe Park: official details on facilities, walks, and water safety.
Palmerston North City Council – Bledisloe Park Walkway: track description, distance, difficulty, and access points.
LAWA: current water quality monitoring for regional waterways including the Manawatū area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Bledisloe Park?
At 119 Tennent Drive, Fitzherbert, Palmerston North, near Massey University.
How long is the main walkway?
The Bledisloe Park Walkway is 0.51 km long and takes about 30 minutes.
Is there a swimming hole?
Yes, in the Turitea Stream within the park. Follow council water safety advice.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, on a leash at all times. Pick up after your dog.
What facilities are available?
Car parking, picnic benches, playground, shade, and stream access.
Can the walk be extended?
Yes, it connects to the Turitea Walkway and Bledisloe Park to Old West Road route.
Is the park suitable for families?
Yes, with easy paths, picnic areas, and a swimming hole, though water safety is essential.
Is parking available?
Yes, free car parks at Tennent Drive and Massey University Avenue entrances.
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