Most rural townships in the Ashburton District have green areas set aside for the enjoyment of its residents and visitors.

These green areas are tended to by local community groups as well as individual Domain boards. Methven and Rakaia would be the largest and best-know of these domains.

Rakaia is considered the northern gateway to Ashburton district, where many of its plants and trees have been planned to reflect harmoniously with Rakaia’s braided river.

Both the Methven and Rakaia Domain are operated by a board while other smaller recreational reserves in the area are maintained by parks and recreation staff.