We have finalised our Reserves Management Plan General Policies.
The Reserves Management Plan General Policies is an “omnibus” plan, providing general management policies across our reserve network. These policies ensure the proper use, development, maintenance, protection, and preservation of Dunedin’s parks, reserves, sports grounds and other green spaces in Dunedin.
We prepare individual management plans for specific reserves with unique or special values. The Reserves Management Plan General Policies is an integral part of these specific management plans and is intended to be read alongside management plans for specific reserves. Where any issue on a reserve is addressed by both the draft plan and a management plan specific to that reserve, then the policies in the specific management plan take precedence.
We asked residents in the wider Dunedin area to provide feedback on the future of reserves. This feedback – gathered from two consultation stages in 2023 and 2025 – has helped shape the final Plan.
The new Plan has been updated to reflect emerging issues and best practices, provide improved clarity and guidance regarding reserve decision-making and better consideration of mana whenua values.
Reserves Management Plan General Policies 2025Timeline
Stage 1 - Public Engagement
3 July to 28 July 2023
Stage 1 - Drafting of Reserve Management Plan General Policies
Sept 2023
Stage 2 - Public Engagement
Submissions open 27 January 2025 – 31 March 2025
Hearings
Monday 18th August 2025
Plan adopted 23 September 2025
Why do we need a management plan?
Under the Reserves Act 1977, we’re required to develop management plans for all reserves under the DCC’s authority. Under the Act, we must consult with the public when we create or review a management plan.
Our current Reserves Management Plan General Policies has not been comprehensively reviewed since it was adopted in 2005.
Stage 1 consultation information
Stage 2 consultation information
For any queries, please email parksconsulting@dcc.govt.nz