Trevor (Trev) Moore, inset, is hosting a public meeting regarding the decommissioning of the Dannevirke Deer Park to see if a community-run option would be possible.
Trevor (Trev) Moore, inset, is hosting a public meeting regarding the decommissioning of the Dannevirke Deer Park to see if a community-run option would be possible.
A Tararua District Council decision to decommission the Dannevirke Deer Park has left some locals keen to find a community-run solution.
The Deer Park, which has eight deer on 1.84ha, was established in 1969 at the Dannevirke Lower Domain. It does not generate revenue and is fully funded byrates.
Trevor (Trev) Moore said the decision to decommission it was “another kick in the guts for the local community.”
“There was no public consultation, and talking to other people, they feel the same way, it’s a great asset, it’s an attraction for people in the community and the wider area as well.”
He planned to host a community meeting at the Creators Space, 125 High St, on May 12 at 6pm, to discuss public interest in a proposal to the council to save the park.
Moore said he wanted to explore a community-run option.
“You have got to have somewhere and something for people to do in town.”
The Tararua District Council has decided to decommission the Dannevirke Deer Park, that covers approximately 1.84ha at the Dannevirke Lower Domain. Photo / Tararua District Council.
It was a “feel-good place” to take a picnic and interact with nature, he said. “How many kids go out and get to see a deer?”
Tararua Mayor Scott Gilmore said he understood there were questions about engagement on the decision.
“The decision to decommission the deer park needed to be made within a tight timeframe because of the pending retirement of the long-standing caretaker.
“We explored options to keep the park running, but none were workable, so we couldn’t delay the decision.”
He said maintaining the facility to modern standards would require significant investment.
This included about $249,000 for fencing upgrades alone, alongside meeting animal welfare requirements, and the need for ongoing veterinary and specialist care for the animals.
A stag with hinds at the deer park pictured in 2006.
Decommissioning was identified as the most cost-effective approach at the council meeting on Wednesday last week.
Gilmore said the Dannevirke Community Board had also endorsed the decision to decommission the park.
He said the council had to be careful with how it spent ratepayer money, with a cost-of-living crisis and the introduction of limits on how much rates can increase.
Moore, who ran for council in 2025, said maintenance costs were not a good enough reason to close the facility.
“They say it’s to save money, but they take it out, what are they going to put there? It is still going to cost money to look after the area.
“A couple of people, fencers, said they would help, give their time and stuff like that, so I think if we put it out in the community, we will get a lot of support.”
Gilmore acknowledged the park was valued by some members of the community.
“The Deer Park isn’t something anyone takes any pleasure in closing, but to keep it going would be very expensive.”
He said Puke Ngatai had cared for the deer since 2018, and was grateful for his dedication.
“He has played an important role in maintaining the park and looking after the animals to a high standard.
“We’re open to any option that provides a cost-effective and sustainable solution that will keep the park open without requiring significant ratepayer investment and that addresses the other concerns that originally led to the decision to close the park.”
Michaela Gower joined Hawke’s Bay Today in 2023 and is based out of the Hastings newsroom. She covers Dannevirke and Hawke’s Bay news and loves sharing stories about farming and rural communities.
