Kāmoanahaehae - Riverside Park

The Alexandra Riverside Park Trust (the Trust) and the Central Otago District Council are collaborating to deliver the Trust's vision to rejuvenate lower Tarbert Street in Alexandra by creating a new public space development at the junction of the Clutha/Mata-au River and Manuherekia River. Walkways, terraces and seating will transform the area into an attractive space for locals and visitors to enjoy. These improved spaces are the building blocks from which businesses and activities can grow.

Aukaha, representing Te Rūnanga o Moeraki, Kāti Huirapa Rūnaka ki Puketeraki and Te Rūnanga o Ōtākou mana whenua in Central Otago, has partnered with the Central Otago District Council, Riverside Park Trust and the local community to integrate mana whenua values and narratives at Kāmoanahaehae - Riverside Park. This initiative seeks to rejuvenate the heart of Alexandra, creating a deeper connection to the rivers and enhancing the central business district (CBD) with pathways that draw people to the riverside.

The project aims to improve access to Alexandra’s pedestrian hub while establishing a natural meeting point for cyclists and walkers navigating the local track network. This location presents a unique opportunity to increase the visibility of Kāi Tahu identity, stories, and values in a place of central importance—bringing Kāi Tahu culture into the built environment.

Project Update. 17 July 2025

The Kāmoanahaehae - Riverside Park is progressing well and taking shape. Recent milestones include the retaining wall, which is clad in decorative timber, adding warmth and texture to the plaza's design. This same wood finish will be echoed in the screening in front of the toilet to create a cohesive look. The curved steel beams form a garden, with plants, shrubs and small trees planted throughout. The tall steel beams will provide support for the future shade sail. Concrete circles have been poured to form the base for future seating and landscaping is underway along the sides to border the space with greenery. In about a week, paving stones will be laid, helping to better define the plaza and pathways.

It's exciting to see the vision for Kāmoanahaehae - Riverside Park come to life as these different elements come together.

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Excited about this project and want to keep in the know? Stay Informed by clicking the subscribe button on this page and you'll receive email newsletters updating you on progress. Another way to follow this project is through the Alexandra Riverside Park Facebook page.

Want to support the project?

There are lots of opportunities to support this project further. To learn more email rory@mclellans.co.nz