Online map reveals district’s public spaces

The Far North District Council is mapping the district’s open spaces and sharing that information via a new online resource the public can use to explore parks, reserves and playgrounds in detail.

Council planning staff have compiled a GIS (graphic information systems) database over the past six months. This has provided a layered map that gives the viewer an immediate visual understanding of the extent and location of spaces managed by the Council.

The map shows how Council-managed spaces interconnect with other public areas, such as Department of Conservation land. It displays connections between different classes of open space managed by the Council, such as parks, reserves, and playgrounds. This helps planners identify opportunities to improve how the spaces are used.

General Manager – Strategic Planning and Policy Darrell Sargent is keen to share the new information with the community. “By sharing the database with everyone in an easily viewable form on our website, we are inviting residents to look at open spaces where they live and to also discover what else is on offer nearby.”

He says staff have also created a survey that asks users to share their experiences of these open spaces. Responses will help the Council learn more about how people currently use the spaces and gather information about how they have been used in the past.

“As well as giving everyone better access to information about the great places on our doorstep, the new map supports our long-term goals. For example, it will help us understand where we need more playgrounds and toilet facilities.”

The map and the Council’s survey about open spaces can both be found on the Council website under the ‘Have your say’ tab. Survey feedback will be used to help the Council understand and clarify community expectations for reserves and other open spaces.