Established in 1963 in an area of farmland in the suburb of Avonhead in the North West of Christchurch, the Burnside Bowling Club is located 3 km from Christchurch International Airport and 7 km from the city centre. The Club is situated in the 30 hectare Burnside Park which is also home to rugby, football, cricket, touch football, tennis and squash clubs. Play began in 1964 on the first of the three present-day greens. Initially separate men's and women's clubs shared the facilities but in 1998 Burnside became an amalgamated club. Today its 250 members make it the largest bowling club of the 58 clubs in the Bowls Canterbury Centre and indeed in the South Island. The three 36.6m x 36.6m maniototo weed greens are surrounded by attractive gardens with a central, large and welcoming club house which has separate dining room and lounge bar facilities. These features are complemented by a willing and skilled volunteer base and together the greens, facilities and volunteer group have made Burnside a focal point in attracting national and international events to Christchurch.