Last updated June 2026
Lough Park Playground is a neighbourhood playground on Lough Street in Timaru, situated between Avenue Road and Wilson Street in a grassed residential reserve. It features a flying fox, the Eagle’s Nest climbing structure, jungle gym, slides and other equipment suited to a range of ages. The park is free to access and remains open at all times as one of the district’s suburban playgrounds. Council installed the Eagle’s Nest in 2021 to add challenge for older children while keeping the structure below surrounding house levels due to the park’s gully setting.
Practical Information
| Location | Lough Street, Timaru — between Avenue Road and Wilson Street |
| Entry | Free |
| Hours | Always open |
| Key equipment | Flying fox, 6-metre Eagle’s Nest climbing structure with ropes and baskets, jungle gym, slides, swings |
| Other facilities | Basketball court |
About Lough Park Playground
Lough Park Playground lies within a suburban reserve in central Timaru and serves local families from the surrounding streets. The park forms part of Timaru District Council’s network of 43 playgrounds, most located within easy walking distance of homes.
In April 2021 council opened the Eagle’s Nest, a six-metre-high climbing structure with ropes and small basket rest points. The installation cost $88,000 including groundworks and was designed to give older children more physical challenge while respecting the privacy of nearby residents because the gully setting keeps the top of the structure below house level.
The playground also includes a flying fox, jungle gym, slides and swings that together cater to younger children and those seeking moderate activity. A basketball court provides an additional option for older users.
Play Features
The flying fox delivers speed and excitement for younger visitors, while the Eagle’s Nest supplies height and climbing challenge aimed at older children. Additional elements such as the jungle gym and slides support imaginative and active play across age groups.
What Visitors Often Say
Families appreciate the variety of equipment that keeps children of different ages engaged during visits to this local park.
Parents note the Eagle’s Nest adds genuine challenge and that the park feels safe and convenient for regular neighbourhood use.
Where to Learn More
Timaru District Council news article: Details on the 2021 installation of the Eagle’s Nest climbing structure.
Timaru District Council playgrounds page: Overview of all district playgrounds and youth facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Lough Park Playground?
Lough Street, Timaru, between Avenue Road and Wilson Street.
Is Lough Park Playground free?
Yes, entry is free and the park is always open.
What is the Eagle’s Nest?
A six-metre-high climbing structure with ropes and baskets, installed in 2021 to challenge older children.
Is there a basketball court at Lough Park?
Yes, a basketball court is located on site.
Does Lough Park have a flying fox?
Yes, the playground includes a flying fox along with other equipment.
How many playgrounds does Timaru District have?
The district manages 43 playgrounds, including Lough Park.
Was the Eagle’s Nest designed with privacy in mind?
Yes, its height was limited because the park sits in a gully so the top remains below nearby houses.
What age group is the Eagle’s Nest aimed at?
It targets older children seeking more physical challenge than typical playground equipment provides.
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