Mt Vernon Park

28/11/2025

We are keen to find out what pest plant species and where they are in Mt Vernon Park.

With this data we can formulate a plan to get on top of controlling further spread and the removal of these unwanted competitors of a native plants.

How can you help?
Simply by taking photos while out and about in Mt Vernon Park. Post these onto INaturalist. And importantly tag these into our ongoing project

Help us identify where pest plant species are within Mt Vernon Park so we can actively remove and control these invasive species. Why? Many exotic plants colonise areas and outcompete our native flora. As we are actively trying to restore this landscape to be covered with indigenous vegetation and p...

05/11/2025

Keep an eye and ear out for these large migratory locusts. Welcome swallows are having a feast.

01/11/2025

A morning's work widening sections of the Rogers Track.
Cutting wedges of accumulated soil out from the upslope track edge is an instant improvement.
More sections of the Track still waiting to be done, so keep an eye out for how you can get involved.

28/10/2025

A bit late notice but this evening is our AGM.

As part of this we would like to invite you to hear of some recent research that has taken place in the Park in collaboration with the School of Earth and Environment at the University of Canterbury.

5.30pm at Hillview Christian School
Meeting location: Staff room

Supporting Navigation and Visitor Experience in Mount Vernon Park
This project was completed in collaboration with the Port Hills Park Trust. It focused on Mt Vernon Park, a recreational and conservation park within the Port Hills of Christchurch. Trails and signage were analysed using a GIS-based trail assessment tool developed in the ArcGIS Field Maps app. Quantitative analysis identified trail damages, maintenance concerns, and inconsistencies in wayfinding signage. Observed issues included missing trail markers and limited information at junction points. Assessment of existing and proposed trails produced an updated trail map. Trails were classified into Share-Use Tracks, Poled-Trails, and Wheelchair-Accessible Tracks. Key recommendations aim to enhance navigation, improve accessibility, and increase access to green spaces. Connectivity within the park is to be strengthened through the creation of loop tracks. A proposed trail signage plan was developed to improve wayfinding consistency. New trail names are recommended to recognise Mātauranga Māori values and reflect the cultural, geographical and ecological identity of the landscape.

Send a message to learn more

22/10/2025

Mt Vernon Park will be CLOSED Thursday 22nd due to the red wind warning as required by Civil Defense & Christchurch City Council.

17/10/2025

Tomorrow is the Crater Rim Ultra. We are proud to support this event that has many of the competitors running through Mt Vernon Park.

We've even put up a display!!

Crater Rim Ultra

04/10/2025

Due to the bad weather we have canceled this month's volunteer day. Looking forward to seeing all volunteers next month.

29/08/2025

The planting day Sunday 31st at the Albert Gorge Retirement and Restoration Area is still on! Dont let the weather forecast put you off. Bring a coat, spade and sturdy shoes. Starts at 10am.

03/08/2025

Our planting day was a huge success today! Next one is 31 August. Details are on our website
www.mtvernonpark.org.nz

https://www.facebook.com/share/1GP6HYdEmQ/

Te Ara Kākāriki - Greenway Canterbury
Summit Road Society

28/07/2025

Come join the Mt Vernon Park community planting day on Sunday. Bring sturdy shoes, gloves and spade. You can find all details and registration on the website. Or just turn up too!
https://www.mtvernonpark.org.nz

12/07/2025

Our annual community planting events are coming up soon Sunday August 3rd and 31st at 10am. We also have other volunteerring events August to December. All details are on our website
https://www.mtvernonpark.org.nz/

Mt Vernon Park is owned and managed by volunteers as part of the Port Hills Trust. We need your help to continue the restoration of native habitat from the valley to summit road.
Please share this event !

26/02/2025

Heads up that Montgomery Spur track is being graveled today by CCC. All Mt Vernon Park tracks are open but Mongomery Spur is closed.