With more than 120 parks in the Ōrākei Local Board area, it can be difficult to choose where to go! We’ve been catching up with local board members to share their favourite spots.
Member David Wong shares some history and stories about his park of choice: Little Rangitoto Reserve.
Located in the suburb of Remuera in Auckland, Little Rangitoto Reserve has an interesting history linked to both natural and cultural heritage.
The reserve takes its name from the volcanic landscape of the Auckland region, with "Rangitoto" referring to the well-known Rangitoto Island, a volcanic cone in the Hauraki Gulf. However, Little Rangitoto itself is not a volcanic cone, but the name reflects the area's connection to Auckland’s volcanic field.
What do you like about it?
Historically, the reserve was part of the extensive landholdings of local Māori iwi (tribes). The land was rich in resources and held cultural significance. Following European settlement and urban development in the 19th and 20th centuries, much of the original landscape was altered, though pockets of green space like Little Rangitoto Reserve were preserved.
Who would you recommend it to?
The reserve today is a small but cherished green space that serves as a recreational area for the local community. It features walking tracks, native bush, a children’s playground, skateboard bowl, flying fox and open grassy areas, making it a peaceful spot in the middle of the city.
Community planting initiatives and ecological restoration efforts have also been undertaken to maintain the native flora and fauna.
Families, children of all ages can come and play on the flying fox and the colourful accommodating swings, slides and challenge course. Dogs are welcome on-leash.
Describe some of its best features:
The flying fox and skateboard bowls are great attractions for young children to gain confidence and have fun with their skateboards in a safe and welcoming environment.
Park benches are available to rest the weary parents’ feet and have a chat while the kids are in close proximity playing on the various apparatuses.
Can you tell us a memory you have from this park?
All my children have grown up with this reserve and now they bring my grandchildren to experience the lush grass, fun playground and an opportunity to mix and mingle with other children. And as the summer progresses through to the cooler autumn climate, it’s still nice to see friends gathering for an evening picnic.
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