Delaney's artworks, 67 steel laser-cut owls placed in a yellowwood grove to mark Mandela Day in 2017 were the catalyst for rallying the powerful and the not-so-powerful to restore the park to a place of pride for the city. Since then there are almost monthly events to clean up the space. A little free library marks the park's entrance (bring a book) and you'll spot other artists' works inspired by Delaney's efforts dotted through the park, including beautiful mosaics by the late Andrew Lindsay.
The western section of The Wilds (bordering Killarney) is currently undergoing a major transformation and is the most rehabilitated and visited section of the park. The eastern section of The Wilds (bordering Upper Houghton and accessed via a footbridge) is still overgrown and less visited, although volunteers are at work here to revive the space.
There are route maps and signposts dotted throughout the park to guide you on your way. Don't leave without climbing up to the top of the ridge (follow the signs for the sundial and Jock's View) to enjoy some of the most beautiful views of the city. For setting up a picnic we recommend finding a spot on the Fever Tree Lawn or closest to the car park on the broad expanses of the Giraffe Lawn (named for the huge life-sized pink sculpture of a giraffe).
Dog walkers are welcomed with open arms (Delaney takes his own honey-coloured Labrador Pablo out for a walk in The Wilds every day), although owners are requested to please clean up after their dogs.
Every Tuesday at 09:00 senior citizens can join the Wise Wildies guided walk through the park for free, led by the dynamic king of hiking Kennedy Tembo of MicroAdventure Tours. The walk starts from The Wilds car park. Find The Wilds guarded parking on Houghton Drive.
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