Park's state in spotlight

The state of Queen Elizabeth Park has come under the spotlight for Masterton residents, who in letters to the Times-Age claim the maintenance of the park leaves a lot to be desired.

The reaction follows a letter published earlier this month from park watchdog June Tainsh who said it was time issues in the park were addressed.

People's concerns have not been restricted to just the park itself but to the Kid's Own Playground - particularly the paddling pool and the Pownall Gate entrance.

Mrs Tainsh said there are many issues with the park which need to be raised with council because "it's a bit of safety and also the way the park looks".

She said the trees and gardens need to be regularly maintained, there is no need for cars to be in the park itself, and flowers - especially roses - encroaching on walkways can be hazardous.

"I would be interested to hear what you, the people of Masterton, really think about your park and what the council should do," she wrote in the letter.

"By this, I don't mean just one or two people but all of you who talk about it but don't stand up and speak out. Maybe if enough people do this we could even get the council to start thinking it's not about what 'we want' but it's what you, the ratepayers of Masterton, want."

Mayor Garry Daniell said he hasn't personally received any complaints about the condition of Queen Elizabeth Park.

He said it has been difficult for some of the parks and recreation staff to maintain all the areas they're responsible for - one reason being more time has been given to grass verges with grass growing so fast.

"One of the things we've always got to remember is we're trying to do a lot with not a lot of money," he said.

He said the next phase of the park rejuvenation plan will see the aviaries demolished and the fence around the cemetery replaced.

Masterton District Council parks and recreation manager Grant Hathaway said the call centre has recorded five calls this year which have been requests for services in the park.

"We would like to thank callers for drawing our attention to issues such as broken tree branches, cars parked on the grass, water features not working and flowers encroaching pathways," he said.

"Readers are encouraged to call the council call centre on 370 6300 if they see any of these sorts of problems - especially if it is a matter of safety."