Last updated June 2026
Saxton Field is a major regional sports and recreation park spanning 65 hectares on the border between Nelson and Tasman. It serves as a central venue for competitive sports, community events and family recreation in the Nelson Tasman area. The complex sits just 12 minutes from Nelson Airport and provides extensive facilities for locals and visitors. Joint ownership by Nelson City Council and Tasman District Council supports ongoing development and management. Recent additions include plans for an enhanced inclusive playground on newly acquired land.
Practical Information
| Location | 142 Saxton Road, Stoke 7011 |
| Size | 65 hectares |
| Ownership | Jointly owned by Nelson City Council and Tasman District Council |
| Distance from Nelson Airport | 12 minutes drive |
| Key Sports | Cricket, hockey, football, netball, athletics, softball |
| Playground | Existing facility near Saxton Stadium carpark; new inclusive playground under development |
| Management | Saxton Field Committee and Reserve Management Plan |
About Saxton Field
Saxton Field occupies land that was previously farmland and has grown into a comprehensive sports and recreation reserve through collaborative council planning. The site features a mix of outdoor fields, indoor venues and green spaces that support both elite competition and casual use. Its central position between Nelson and Richmond makes it convenient for residents across the region.
The complex includes Saxton Oval, which meets international cricket standards and regularly hosts matches at national and international levels. Additional pavilions provide changing rooms, kitchens and spectator areas for hockey, football and other codes. Indoor facilities such as Saxton Stadium support futsal, netball and other activities year-round.
A dedicated Saxton Field Committee with representatives from both councils oversees operations and capital projects. The Reserve Management Plan guides development priorities, including sustainability measures and improved accessibility. The venue continues to expand with recent land purchases that will add public recreation space.
Saxton Field Playground
An existing playground near the Saxton Stadium carpark offers play equipment suitable for a range of ages on bark chip surfacing. The site is popular with families combining sports viewing or picnics with children’s play. A new higher-specification inclusive playground is planned following the joint purchase of the former RNZ transmission site for approximately $1.5 million. This 7.14-hectare addition will be vested as reserve land and developed into an accessible destination playspace.
Sports Facilities and Activities
Saxton Field supports a wide range of sports including cricket at Saxton Oval, hockey on dedicated turfs, football fields, netball courts, athletics track, softball diamonds and a velodrome. Indoor options include Saxton Stadium and a table tennis hall. Additional recreation activities available on site encompass walking paths, cycling routes, disc golf, an outdoor fitness centre and dog walking areas. The multi-use design allows simultaneous events and casual recreation.
Events and Access
The venue regularly hosts regional and international cricket matches along with tournaments in hockey, football and netball. Ample parking is available, including accessible spaces, with connections via Saxton Field Drive. The site is reachable by car, on foot or by bike, with walkways linking different areas. Bookings for venues and events are managed through the official channels listed on the Saxton Field website.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors praise the large, well-maintained grounds and excellent cricket facilities at Saxton Oval. Many note the convenience of the location and the variety of sports fields available for both watching matches and participating in activities.
Families appreciate the existing playground and open spaces for picnics and casual play. Reviewers often highlight the venue’s role as a community hub that accommodates large events while remaining accessible for everyday use.
Where to Learn More
Saxton Field official site: Details on facilities, recreation options, venue hire and current projects.
Nelson venues page: Booking information and overview of the 65-hectare sport and recreation park.
Nelson City Council: Information on the Saxton Field Committee and Reserve Management Plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What sports are available at Saxton Field?
Facilities support cricket, hockey, football, netball, athletics, softball, disc golf and more, with both outdoor fields and indoor venues.
Is there a playground at Saxton Field?
Yes, an existing playground is located near the Saxton Stadium carpark, and a new inclusive destination playground is under development on recently purchased land.
Can Saxton Field be booked for events?
Yes, indoor and outdoor venues are available for hire including pavilions, stadiums and fields. Contact details and booking processes are on the official Saxton Field website.
Is parking available?
Ample parking including accessible spaces is provided throughout the complex, with good access during events.
How far is Saxton Field from Nelson Airport?
The venue is approximately 12 minutes drive from Nelson Airport.
Who owns and manages Saxton Field?
It is jointly owned by Nelson City Council and Tasman District Council and overseen by the Saxton Field Committee under a Reserve Management Plan.
Are there walking or cycling options?
Yes, the site includes walking paths, cycling routes and connections suitable for recreational use alongside sports facilities.
Is Saxton Oval used for international cricket?
Yes, the oval hosts national and international matches including T20 and One Day Internationals.
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