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Owen Street park redevelopment

The former Newtown Workingmen’s Bowling Club pavilion had reached its end of useful life and has been demolished. We're now building a neighbourhood park for community use and the ability to host small events.

About the project

Work began on-site on 12 March 2025. The site development is progressing well. Works on site is estimated to be finished mid July.

An opening will be planned for September pending sufficient grass and planting establishment.

The park is proposed to feature:

  • a stage for performances and events
  • a large green open space
  • a loop track for walking/riding bikes
  • a natural play area
  • barbeque and seating area
  • increased visibility and connections to the Town Belt
  • skate-friendly features
Final design concept for Owen Street park redevelopment
Final design concept for Owen Street park redevelopment

Background

In August 2021 the ground lease between the Workingmen’s Bowling Club (the Club) and Wellington City Council was cancelled by mutual agreement following the closure of the Club.

The building had reached the end of its useful life and was deemed irreparable.

In 2022 the Council resolved to allocate $1.5 million towards the removal, upgrade, or development of the building and grounds of the former Newtown Workingmen’s Bowling Club site for community use, dependent on the results of community engagement.

Consultation and engagement on this project have been completed. We worked closely with several community groups, including the Newtown Residents Association and the Newtown Festival Trust.

Summary of community engagement (462KB PDF)

Contact us

For more information, email Sanjay Patel, Sport & Club Partnership Lead: sanjay.patel@wcc.govt.nz.