Parksville

The city of Parksville, British Columbia was named for Nelson Parks, the town's first postmaster. During 1945, Parksville was incorporated, then became a town in the year 1978 and a city in the year 1981. Parksville City sits north of Vancouver Island's eastern shores, around 37 kms from the BC Ferry and Nanaimo Terminals to mainland BC. The very first settler in the area was John Hirst. It became an outpost until the turn of the century, and during the year 1901, the city of Parksville grew exponentially due to the Esquimalt and Nanaimo extension. Because of the increase in tourism, lots of motels, stores, campgrounds, and resorts followed, which continues to give Parksville City an economic boost up to the present.

There are a lot of places to go to for indoor or outdoor activities. The Oceanside Place, that opened in the year 2003, is under the jurisdiction of the Regional District of Nanaimo. Amongst the numerous attractions it offers are two NHL regulation size ice sheets which were named after the two local heroes and legends in the region: These consist of: Howie Meeker, Hockey Hall of Famer and World Champion Figure Skater, Victor Kraatz. Additionally, there is also a meeting room, Oceanside Pond, a concession, a skate shop, multi-purpose rooms and likewise the Parks Department and RDN Recreation offices. Wembley Mall, located between Qualicum Beach and Parksville, is Vancouver Island's most recent ice facility which offers three ice sheets. It is amongst the most well-known facilities for Oceanside residents and visitors. The Parksville Curling Club is for curling aficionados who like to enjoy the sport and have some fun. There are five sheets of "arena ice" which are always kept in good condition by their Ice Technician. The rink is accessible for lease by groups and businesses, and it is accessible for use day or night. The Parksville Lawn Bowling Club was created during 1991 and is located within downtown Parksville on East Stanford, behind the Parksville Community and Conference Centre. On a yearly basis, there is an open house that invites the public to see lawn bowling events and some tournaments. The Regional District of Nanaimo offers the recreational programs within the area, and it encompasses the boundaries of Parksville, the City of Nanaimo, and Town of Qualicum. The Recreation and Parks Department offers services that include the Oceanside Place and Ravensong Aquatic Centre. It also provides the residents of Gabriola Island.

The economy of the city of Parksville is heavily reliant upon tourism. The area is considered one of the fastest growing regions on the island. The central island location and temperate weather has made it a hot-spot for holiday destination. A couple of its most well-known attractions are the Rathtrevor Beach and Parksville Beach. Its other major industries are retail, tourism, services, construction and light industries.