Parksville

Named after Nelson Parks, the first postmaster, Parksville City was incorporated in the month of June the year 1945. It became a town on 1978 and a city in the year 1981. THe city of Parksville is situated on Vancouver Island's eastern shores, which is just roughly 37 kilometers north of BC Ferry and Nanaimo Terminals to the mainland. The very first settler in the area was John Hirst. It became an outpost until the turn of the century, and during 1901, Parksville City grew exponentially because of the Esquimalt and Nanaimo extension. Because of the increase in tourism, numerous motels, stores, campgrounds, and resorts followed, which continues to give the city of Parksville an economic boost until the present.

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

The economy of Parksville is heavily reliant upon tourism. The area is considered among the fastest growing regions on the island. The central island location and temperate climate has made it a hot-spot for vacation. A couple of its most popular attractions are Parksville Beach and the Rathtrevor Beach. Its other major industries are retail, tourism, light, service and construction industries.