Last updated June 2026
Elizabeth Park is a large reserve in South Invercargill that serves as a key community space for sports, play and recreation. Covering more than 14 hectares, the park provides extensive green areas alongside dedicated facilities including a large adventure playground and two BMX tracks. It sits in a residential setting at the southeast end of the city and welcomes locals and visitors for casual use and organised activities. The park is managed by Invercargill City Council and remains open year-round with free public access.
Practical Information
| Location | South Invercargill, bordered by John Street, Lime Street, Rimu Street and Lauder Crescent |
| Size | More than 14 hectares |
| Key Facilities | Adventure playground with flying fox, slides, towers and pebble play area; two BMX tracks; large open green spaces; car parks off John Street and Lime Street |
| Access | Multiple entry points from surrounding streets; car parks available |
| Dog Policy | Designated dog exercise area; off-leash permitted except around the playground |
| Toilets | Available by request or key access |
| Hours | Open year-round; generally sunrise to sunset |
| Cost | Free entry |
About Elizabeth Park
Elizabeth Park lies in the southern residential area of Invercargill and forms an important part of the city’s network of open green spaces. The park supports both organised sports and informal recreation, with large flat areas used by local clubs and community groups for a variety of activities.
The central adventure playground offers equipment suited to a range of ages and abilities, including a flying fox, balance beams, slides and towers, plus a dedicated pebble play area for younger children. Additional play equipment is located on the eastern side off John Street.
Two BMX tracks at the northern end of the park are maintained by the Southland BMX Club. The original track opened in 1998 and a second track was added in 2024. The tracks host club meets and competitions while remaining open to the public at other times.
Well-formed paths wind through the park, providing safe routes for walking and cycling. The combination of open space, play facilities and tracks makes Elizabeth Park a versatile destination for families, sports enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
Access and Parking
Elizabeth Park can be reached from John Street, Lime Street, Rimu Street and Lauder Crescent. Dedicated car parks are located off John Street and Lime Street, offering convenient vehicle access. The surrounding residential streets provide additional on-street parking options for those arriving on foot or by bicycle.
BMX Tracks
The two BMX tracks cater to riders of varying skill levels and are used for both competitive events and casual riding. The Southland BMX Club manages maintenance and scheduling. Public access is available outside of organised sessions, making the facility a regular destination for local cyclists.
Playground and Family Facilities
The main playground in the centre of the park features a range of inclusive equipment designed for active and imaginative play. A pebble play area with stones, buckets and chutes provides a gentler option for young children. The facilities support family visits and are popular with local tamariki and rangatahi.
Walking, Cycling and Open Spaces
A network of paths allows visitors to explore the park on foot or by bike. The extensive open green areas are suitable for casual games, picnics and informal gatherings. These spaces are regularly used by community groups and contribute to the park’s role as a local recreation hub.
Dog Exercise Area
Elizabeth Park is a designated dog exercise area. Dogs may be exercised off-leash throughout most of the park, with the exception of the immediate area around the playground where leashes are required. Owners must maintain control of their dogs and clean up after them.
Community Events and Use
The park regularly hosts community events and activities organised by local groups. These gatherings strengthen community connections and make use of the open spaces and facilities. Visitors can check the Invercargill City Council website or community noticeboards for upcoming events.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors appreciate the large open spaces and the variety of play equipment that keeps children engaged for extended periods. Many note the convenience of the BMX tracks for both beginners and more experienced riders, and the relaxed atmosphere suitable for family outings and casual exercise.
Regular users value the off-leash dog area and the network of paths for walking or cycling. Some mention that toilets are available only by arrangement, so planning ahead is helpful, while the free access and central location in South Invercargill make it a practical choice for local families.
Where to Learn More
Invercargill City Council – Elizabeth Park: Official page with details on facilities, access and dog policy.
Let’s Talk Invercargill – Elizabeth Park: Community consultation and event information for the park.
Southland BMX Club: Information on track use, events and club activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Elizabeth Park free to enter?
Yes, entry to Elizabeth Park is free with multiple access points from surrounding streets.
Are dogs allowed off-leash?
Elizabeth Park is a designated dog exercise area where dogs may be off-leash except in the area immediately around the playground.
Are toilets available at the park?
Toilets are available by request or key access; they are not open at all times.
Can I reserve picnic areas or tables?
Picnic areas operate on a first-come, first-served basis and cannot be reserved for private events.
What are the BMX track opening times?
The tracks are open to the public outside of club competitions and meets; check with the Southland BMX Club for scheduled sessions.
Is the playground suitable for all ages?
The adventure playground includes equipment for a range of ages and abilities, with a separate pebble play area for younger children.
Are there food vendors or kiosks?
No food vendors or kiosks operate within Elizabeth Park; visitors are encouraged to bring their own supplies.
What are the park’s opening hours?
The park is open year-round, generally from sunrise to sunset, with no seasonal closures.
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