A piece of cardboard, a grassy slope and another walk back up for one more go. Cardboard hill sliding at Dolbel Reserve in Taradale is a simple way to spend part of a Napier afternoon outdoors.
Bring your own cardboard and take a look at the conditions when you arrive. This is a reserve hillside, not a managed slide: the grass, weather and slope all make a difference.
Dolbel Reserve is in Taradale, Napier. The open grassy slopes are the setting for this outing, with views across the neighbourhood from higher up the hill.
Use the map to plan your visit, then follow public access and any signs at the reserve. Leave driveways clear when parking and check for closures or restrictions before heading onto the hill.
Start low on a gentle part of the slope and check the whole run, including where you will stop. Choose a clear stretch away from trees, paths, fences and other people. Take turns and keep the run-out area clear.
Stay seated, keep children supervised and walk back up outside the sliding route. If the ground is muddy, the grass is damaged or you cannot stop comfortably, give sliding a miss and enjoy a walk instead.
Pack a sturdy, flattened cardboard box with any staples removed, along with closed-toe shoes, water, sunscreen and a hat. Clothes that cover your legs can help with scratchy grass.
Our photo shows a wire cage with cardboard at the foot of the hill, but do not rely on usable pieces being there. Bring your own and take it home afterwards, including any torn-off bits. Leave the slope and paths clear for the next visitors.
