One of Auckland's most popular parks is planning to implement paid parking to manage overwhelming crowds, RNZ has revealed.
By Jessica Hopkins of RNZ
The independent trust that manages Cornwall Park confirmed to RNZ that, from December 1 2026, it would charge between $2.50 and $5 an hour to park in some areas of the Epsom parkland and along Pūriri Drive.
On weekdays, parking would be $5 an hour after an initial two-hour free period and capped at $35 a day.
Weekend and public holiday parking would be $2.50 an hour after the initial free period and capped at $20 a day.
Cornwall Park Trust chief executive Murray Reade said the park had become increasingly busy over the years and many people who came to the park struggled to find a parking spot.
"Parking demand at Cornwall Park continues to grow, particularly during weekends, major events, and peak seasonal periods.
"Finding a park can be challenging during busy times, and visitors regularly tell us that parking availability is becoming more difficult. During peak periods, high-demand parking areas can become heavily occupied, making it harder for visitors to find a space."
Reade said it had struck a balance by keeping parking for the first two hours free and providing 300 free all-day parking spaces on Grand Drive and Bollard Avenue.
"We've deliberately structured the pricing to support the way people use Cornwall Park. Most recreational visits remain free, while reduced weekend and public holiday rates support families, groups, and recreational visitors.
"Paid parking is one tool that will help improve parking turnover, support fair access, and make parking more readily available for visitors."
He said about 70% of the two million visits to the park each year lasted less than two hours.
He said the revenue generated through paid parking would go towards the park's ongoing maintenance and preservation and improving the visitor experience.
While Cornwall Park was managed by the Cornwall Park Trust, One Tree Hill Domain/Maungakiekie, inside the park, was managed by the Tūpuna Maunga Authority and Auckland Council.
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