Parks, Recreation and Culture

The Parks, Recreation and Culture Department coordinates and oversees recreation programming for all ages and abilities in several interest areas, including fitness, wellness, arts, crafts, cooking, sports, music, dance and language. The department plans and organizes several special events and celebrations, such as Canada Day, Concerts in the Park, Family Day events and Winter Wonderland.

The department also maintains city-owned properties, including arenas, pools, community centres, civic buildings, as well as the amenities at these locations (tennis courts, lacrosse boxes, etc.) and organizes the booking of recreations facilities, parks and equipment.

Along with managing and maintaining 1,400 hectares (3,459 acres) of parks, trails and other protected open space (which makes up over 15 percent of Nanaimo), the department protects, conserves and enhances Nanaimo’s natural environment by providing input into the development process and guiding environmental policy to support stewardship and outreach program efforts.

Through these areas of responsibility, the department aims to live up to its mission statement ”to enhance the quality of life and leisure in Nanaimo”.

Recreation Centre Locations

• Bowen Park Complex: 500 Bowen Road
• Beban Park Recreation Centre (includes Frank Crane and Cliff McNabb Arenas): 2300 Bowen Road
• Nanaimo Aquatic Centre: 741 Third Street
• Nanaimo Ice Centre: 750 Third Street
• Oliver Woods Community Centre: 6000 Oliver Road