Make music at popular park

Published: 13 March 2025

People of all ages and abilities can practice their best beats or keep time with sweet chimes, thanks to accessible musical equipment recently installed at Anderson Park.

The Rotary Musical Garden, comprising colourful xylophones, bells, and drums, is complemented by equally bright seating and located near the popular park’s destination playground. It was officially opened by the Mayor of Napier on Wednesday 12 March.

Napier Mayor Kirsten Wise explains Napier City Council has a long-established relationship with the Rotary Club of Napier, dating back to the post-1931 earthquake reconstruction era.

“Council is interested in providing experiences and activities to support different sectors of the community in ways that are affordable for everyone. The club recently celebrated 100 years, and approached us with the wonderful idea of donating musical equipment to the city as part of its centennial celebrations.

“Council has worked with Rotary on many projects over the years, including the network of pathways crisscrossing the city, which have helped to make Napier a destination.

“The club’s continued generosity, through the donation of this equipment, will bring joy to many generations,” she says.

The organisation is now known as the Rotary Club of Ahuriri Napier. Immediate Past President Gary Hemmings said the gift was inspired by what a club member saw on an overseas trip. The United States has 1000-plus similar musical installations.

“We wanted to give something to the community in recognition our milestone, that could be used by as many people as possible,” he says.

Over the past few months, Council has extended the park’s accessible playground, improved BBQ and picnic areas, and added an entertainment space. Council also worked with the Hawke’s Bay Disc Golf Club to open Napier’s first dedicated course at the park.

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