With more sunny months ahead, we take a look at some of the top spots to stop and play for an hour . . . or two.
1. Takapuna Beach Playground
Gould Reserve, The Strand
What’s cool: Intertwining pipe slides feed off an impressive red and gold tower, and a wheelchair-accessible merry-go-round ensures no one is left out.
![Takapuna Beach playground](/media/zlypa32z/p9_news_playground_background.jpg?anchor=center&mode=crop&width=680&rnd=132682653843530000)
2. Barry Curtis Park
201 Chapel Road, Flat Bush
What’s cool: Kids will love challenging themselves on the giant red rope tepee – and older ones will be thrilled with one of the largest skate parks in the country.
![Barry Curtis Park](/media/oudpaxmz/barry-curtis-park.jpg?anchor=center&mode=crop&width=680&rnd=132682653848700000)
3. Rocket Park
751 New North Road, Mt Albert
What’s cool: The rocket, of course! It’s an icon in the area, with children always eager to climb its four levels.
![Rocket Park](/media/mncjrr3o/rockety.jpg?anchor=center&mode=crop&width=680&rnd=132682653856230000)
4. Tūī Glen Reserve
2 Claude Brookes Drive, Henderson
What’s cool: Pyramid towers with pipe slides, a basket swing, an eagle’s nest, dual flying foxes (race a friend!) and a tree hut make this one of the best play destinations in the west.
![Tui Glen Reserve](/media/2e5pya2g/tui-glen.jpg?anchor=center&mode=crop&width=680&rnd=132682653866070000)
5. Allenby Park
66 Allenby Road, Papatoetoe
What’s cool: An upgrade this year included a climbing tower and a new sand and water play area, making this one of the hottest playgrounds of the south this summer.
![Allenby Park](/media/wsuj4k5u/allenby-park.jpg?anchor=center&mode=crop&width=680&rnd=132682653872930000)
6. Snakes and Ladders
42 Bramley Drive, Farm Cove
What’s cool: A snakes and ladders game made from pipe slides, stairs, and stepping posts – what’s not to love!
![Snakes and Ladders](/media/cbqapase/snakes-and-ladders.jpg?anchor=center&mode=crop&width=680&rnd=132682653879500000)
7. Daldy Street Park
Wynyard Quarter, CBD
What’s cool: A little green oasis designed to mirror the tank farm around it, this playground’s 7.5m slide will keep kids running back up the stairs for another go.
![Daldy Street](/media/zkmmwrnu/daldy-street.jpg?anchor=center&mode=crop&width=680&rnd=132682653884670000)
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