Known locally as 'The Dog Park', dogs are welcome off-lead but must be under the control of their owners. An agility course for dogs is in the centre of the park. This space offers an opportunity for dogs to explore, socialise and play together in an open environment.  We'd prefer you bring your own bags, but in case you forget there are free bags for dog waste and bins throughout the park.

The Raupare Stream flows through the park and is crossed by small bridges connecting the approximately two kilometres of easy paths.  Note that some pathways may be difficult (steep, rough) for prams and wheelchairs.

Many specimen trees, a pine plantation and open grass areas make the park popular for walking and family outings.  Look for the carved seats in the pine plantation - talented contractors made the most of storm-blown trees.

The park was developed in the former bed of the Ngaruroro River, which was diverted 500 m north in a large flood protection project completed in 1969. The Raupare Stream now flows under the old river bridge near the entrance to the park. The park was originally called a 'country park' and was created by the Landcare Foundation in the 1970s, with support the Friends of Pākōwhai Regional Park group who did a lot of the planting and pathway development in the early years.

A walk through the park from the stopbank entrance serves as a memorial to Mr Doug Walker, who was Chairman of the Regional Council from 1992-1996 when he led the development of much of the flood protection work on the Heretaunga Plains. A second pathway has been named for Mrs Eileen von Dadelszen QSM, a former Regional Councillor who, with husband Mark, was involved from early on with the Friends of Pākōwhai group which helped with park development.