Last updated June 2026
Logan Park is a premier sporting and recreational reserve in Dunedin, New Zealand, located in the university precinct near the University of Otago and Otago Polytechnic. The park features multiple grass and artificial pitches for rugby, soccer, hockey and other sports, along with University Oval for cricket and the Caledonian Ground for athletics and soccer. It sits on land reclaimed from the former Pelichet Bay inlet and offers scenic paths beside Opoho Creek with views toward forested hills at the foot of Signal Hill. Forsyth Barr Stadium lies immediately to the south, adding to the area’s event capacity. Logan Park serves students, local clubs and the wider community for both organised sport and casual leisure activities.
Practical Information
| Location | Logan Park Drive, Dunedin North, adjacent to Otago Polytechnic and University of Otago College of Education |
| Owner | Dunedin City Council |
| Key Facilities | Artificial turfs (hockey and multi-sport), grass rugby and soccer pitches, University Oval (cricket/rugby), Caledonian Ground (athletics and soccer), tennis courts, bowling green |
| Access | Public reserve with no set opening hours; vehicle access via surrounding streets and Logan Park Drive |
| Bookings | Contact DCC Parks Booking team at sp*******@******vt.nz or relevant clubs (e.g., Otago Rugby, Football South) |
| Parking | Limited on-site; additional spaces near Forsyth Barr Stadium |
| Accessibility | Variable; some paths and facilities have limitations. Contact DCC for current details |
About Logan Park
Logan Park occupies the northeastern edge of the Water of Leith plain in Dunedin. The northern and eastern boundaries are formed by forested hills at the base of Signal Hill, while Opoho Creek runs along the eastern perimeter. The park integrates sports fields with natural surroundings, providing a balance of active recreation and quieter walking or cycling routes.
The site originated as Pelichet Bay, an inlet of Otago Harbour that silted heavily after construction of the South Island Main Trunk Railway causeway. Reclamation began in 1913 and continued after the First World War. The completed land hosted the 1925–26 New Zealand and South Seas Exhibition and was subsequently developed into playing fields linked to the city centre by Anzac Avenue.
Today the reserve supports a wide range of sports through its combination of natural grass and artificial surfaces. University Oval, located within the park, serves as a venue for Otago cricket and university rugby, while the Caledonian Ground provides an athletics track and the city’s primary soccer venue. Proximity to tertiary institutions encourages strong use by student clubs and community teams.
Sporting Facilities
Logan Park contains multiple dedicated pitches. Artificial turfs support hockey and multi-sport use, while grass fields accommodate rugby and soccer. University Oval features a media complex and historic grandstand for cricket and rugby matches. The Caledonian Ground includes a full athletics track, grandstand and soccer fields. Additional amenities comprise tennis courts and a bowling green. A new artificial field known as Logan Park Turf opened in 2019.
History and Development
Reclamation of the former Lake Logan (Pelichet Bay) started in 1913 to address silting problems. The project enabled construction of Anzac Avenue and prepared the site for the 1925–26 exhibition. Remaining exhibition buildings include the former art gallery and aquarium structures. The area was converted to sports fields shortly after the exhibition and has remained a central recreational hub ever since.
Access, Parking and Getting There
The main vehicle entrance is via streets around the Otago Polytechnic and University of Otago College of Education, with a feeder road from the realigned State Highway 88 beside Forsyth Barr Stadium. On-site parking is limited, particularly during events; additional spaces are available near the stadium. Pedestrian and cycle access is straightforward from surrounding university and residential areas. Public transport options serve the university precinct.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors appreciate the variety of well-maintained sports fields and the convenience of having university venues nearby. Many note the scenic backdrop of hills and creek for walking or cycling between activities.
Regular users highlight the park’s role as a community and student hub, with good facilities for both competitive sport and casual recreation, though parking can be tight on busy days.
Where to Learn More
Dunedin City Council Logan Park page: Official information on facilities, bookings and layout maps.
Wikipedia Logan Park, Dunedin: Detailed history and features with references to primary sources.
Dunedin City Council Logan Park Management Plan: Current planning documents and reserve details.
Frequently Asked Questions
What sports facilities are available at Logan Park?
Logan Park offers artificial and grass pitches for rugby, soccer and hockey, University Oval for cricket and rugby, the Caledonian Ground for athletics and soccer, plus tennis courts and a bowling green.
Is Logan Park wheelchair accessible?
Accessibility varies across paths and facilities. Some areas have limitations; contact Dunedin City Council for the latest information on accessible routes and parking.
How do I book a sports field at Logan Park?
Bookings are handled through the DCC Parks Booking team via sp*******@******vt.nz or through relevant sporting organisations such as Otago Rugby or Football South.
Where can I park near Logan Park?
On-site parking is limited. Additional spaces are available near Forsyth Barr Stadium, especially useful during events or peak times.
Are there walking or cycling paths at Logan Park?
Yes, paths run alongside Opoho Creek and through the park, offering scenic routes with views of the surrounding hills and harbour.
What is the history of the land at Logan Park?
The park was created through reclamation of Pelichet Bay starting in 1913. The land hosted the 1925–26 New Zealand and South Seas Exhibition before becoming sports fields.
Is Logan Park open to the public at all times?
The reserve has no fixed opening hours and is generally accessible, though specific facilities may have event-based restrictions.
Are dogs allowed in Logan Park?
Dunedin City Council rules apply; dogs are typically permitted on leash in many reserves but check current bylaws or signage for any restrictions on sports fields.
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