The park was initially developed in 1908 by Philip Davis, as a private picnic area covering 32 ha (80 acres).

[1] By 1911, the park was being promoted as an easily accessible destination for outdoor recreation including children's activities and athletics.

[6] There were prolonged delays in obtaining funding and developing the project, but the War Memorial Swimming Baths were eventually opened on 13 December 1958.

[7][8] In 1999, approval was given for the development of a children's adventure playground on the land formerly occupied by the Maidstone Memorial Pool complex.

[12] Upper Hutt City FC also use Maidstone Park as their home ground with their club rooms based in front of the turf.

The Maidstone Model Engineering Society was formed and incorporated in June 1967,[23] with funding and construction support for the project to be provided by the Upper Hutt Lions Club.