Last updated July 2026
Ian Galloway Park is a community park in Wellington’s Northland suburb, near Karori. It features open grassed areas, walking paths, a dedicated dog exercise area and adjacent sports facilities including a BMX track. The park sits on a former landfill site and serves residents of the western suburbs for informal recreation and dog exercise. Recent upgrades include new public toilets near the BMX area and dog park.
Practical Information
| Location | Northland, Wellington (near Karori) |
| Getting There | Drive or take the bus to the Northland or Karori area |
| Parking | Free parking available at the park |
| Entry | Free |
| Hours | Open at all times (toilets open 7am-9pm daily) |
| Facilities | Fenced dog exercise area, walking paths, open grass, new public toilets |
| Nearby | BMX track |
| Accessibility | Accessible concrete path to toilets; paths suitable for wheelchairs in main areas |
About Ian Galloway Park
Ian Galloway Park provides green space in Wellington’s western suburbs. It was named after Ian Galloway, who served as Director of Parks from 1965 to 1986 and contributed significantly to the city’s parks network. The park was developed on the site of a former landfill known as the Western Tip.
The park includes a dog exercise area that supports off-leash activity for local dog owners. New public toilets with an accessible concrete path have been installed near the BMX track and dog park area, open daily from 7am to 9pm.
Wellington City Council has developed the Ian Galloway Park Plan in consultation with the community. The plan covers Ian Galloway Park along with nearby Wilton Park and Appleton Park, focusing on environmental recovery, diversified recreation, enhanced sports fields and improved connections.
Dog Exercise Area
The park features a designated dog exercise area where dogs may be exercised off-leash. Council mapping identifies the area as a dog exercise location with lighting from dusk until 8pm. Dog owners remain responsible for cleaning up after their pets and ensuring dogs do not behave aggressively.
BMX Track and Recreation
An established BMX track sits adjacent to the park, providing a dedicated facility for riders. The surrounding open space supports casual walking, informal play and other recreation. A regional-scale sealed pump track has been proposed for the site by community groups.
Future Improvements
The Ian Galloway Park Plan outlines short-, medium- and long-term initiatives. Current funding includes $1 million from the Charles Plimmer Bequest for environmental and amenity enhancements and $250,000 for a new local play space. Construction of some elements is scheduled to begin in 2027 following design and consenting processes.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors appreciate the dedicated fenced dog area for safe off-leash exercise and note the convenient parking and proximity to the BMX track for family outings.
Walkers describe the paths as pleasant for a casual stroll or short loop, with flat terrain that suits pushchairs and provides good open space for children and dogs.
Where to Learn More
Wellington City Council Ian Galloway Park Plan: Details the final plan, objectives and upcoming improvements for the park and neighbouring reserves.
Wellington City Council Dog Exercise Map: Official mapping of dog exercise areas and restrictions across Wellington parks.
Wellington City Council Archives – Ian Galloway: Background on the park’s namesake and his contributions to Wellington parks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ian Galloway Park free to enter?
Yes, entry is free and the park is open at all times.
Can dogs be off-leash at Ian Galloway Park?
Yes, there is a designated dog exercise area where dogs may be off-leash. Dogs must be kept on-leash outside this area.
Is there a BMX track at Ian Galloway Park?
Yes, a BMX track is located adjacent to the park.
Are there toilets at Ian Galloway Park?
Yes, new public toilets near the BMX area and dog park are open daily from 7am to 9pm.
Is Ian Galloway Park accessible?
The park has accessible paths, including a concrete path to the new toilets. The main areas are generally suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs.
What improvements are planned for Ian Galloway Park?
The Ian Galloway Park Plan includes environmental enhancements, a new play space and other upgrades, with construction of funded elements scheduled from 2027.
Where is Ian Galloway Park located?
The park is in the Northland suburb of Wellington, near Karori and close to Wilton Park and Appleton Park.
Who was Ian Galloway?
Ian Galloway served as Wellington’s Director of Parks from 1965 to 1986. The park is named in his honour.
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