We’re taking a look at some of the best playgrounds around Auckland. This week: Wai-O-Taiki Nature Reserve, Fernwood Place, Wai-O-Taki Bay, Glen Innes
*Update: This playground is scheduled for renewal in 2017.
A climbing frame shaped like a tipi is the main feature of this quirky playground, which takes its cues from the nature around it with a driftwood theme.
Set in a grassy area off Fernwood Place, at the entrance to Wai-O-Taiki Nature Reserve, you'll find all the family favourites and more.
What's on offer?
This playground suits a variety of ages, from toddlers to ten-year-olds. There are two swings, a tube slide as well as a classic open slide, several rope climbing walls and a set of monkey bars.
The central tipi has a rope balancing bridge joining the tipi to the monkey bars for maximum climbing fun and a bit of a challenge.
For the adventurous, at the far end of the playground is a 'rocktopus' multi-armed tyre swing that tilts and pivots.
The playground is fully fenced and has a bark play surface for safety. The large driftwood logs around the play are give mums and dads somewhere to perch while they supervise.
More to do
Wai-O-Taiki Nature Reserve in Glen Innes is a narrow, bushy reserve that runs along the Tamaki Estuary, with a track connecting it to the larger Tahuna Torea reserve.
Elsewhere in the reserve there is a small basketball court, plus plenty of space for informal games, although take care – it's a bit hilly, and you'll need to remember a hat as there isn't a lot of shade.
