What do belly dancing, Tai Chi and trolley derbies have in common? They're all activities happening at one of the Whakatāne District's many public parks during Park Week 2019.

The New Zealand Recreation Association and Parks and Leisure Australia have again teamed up to help organise Parks Week from March 9 to 17.

The aim of the week is to raise awareness of the value of parks and open spaces, and to get people out of their living rooms and enjoying the outdoors.

The Whakatāne District will be hosting a range of free events to celebrate our places and open spaces next month.

Whakatāne District Council manager of places and open spaces Mike Houghton said the district was fortunate to have a wealth of public places to be shared and enjoyed.

"Healthy parks are essential for healthy people and our district has some of the most picturesque reserves in the country," he said.

"As well as being good for your physical and mental wellbeing, parks are places where we can connect with others and build stronger families and communities."

Apanui School and the Whakatāne Library have collaborated to bring Te Reo in the Park to the Whakatāne Rose Gardens as part of Park Week 2019.

Other schools in the district are encouraged to think about how they can be a part of Park Week, and are invited to contact the council to discuss their involvement.

Parks Week activities include:
Trolley Derby, Waiewe Reserve, March 9
Book-a-Boo in the Park, Whakatāne Rose Gardens, March 12
Ika-Boo in the Park, Murupara Domain, March 13
Tai Chi in the Park, Whakatāne Rose Gardens, March 14
Guided day walk through Whirinaki Te Pua-a-Tāne Conservation Park, March 14 or 15 
Yoga in the Park, Whakatāne Rose Gardens, March 15
Dance and Musical Concert, Wharaurangi, March 16 
Outdoor Movie Night, Warren Cole Walkway Amphitheatre, March 16 
Belly Dance Taster, Whakatāne Rose Gardens, March 17

Source: Rotorua Daily Post