New and improved – building better in Waitematā

Growth in Auckland isn’t just about big council projects like new roads, major transport initiatives, or improved water services.

Local boards also fund projects, upgrades and facilities that build better neighbourhoods and help create great places to live.

From paths to pools, find out where Waitematā Local Board has been investing in building better places for everyone to enjoy.

Civic spaces

Looking for somewhere to read a book, share a picnic, take a rest or even bust out some salsa moves? Life in the inner-city suburbs can be fast-paced, and these public spaces offer somewhere to slow down and take some time out:

Ponsonby Road’s much anticipated Te Rimutahi was completed in 2025, replacing an old liquor store and carpark with a beautiful multi-functional outdoor space for you to enjoy. The covered canopy area can act as a dance floor, yoga platform or even a performance stage.

At the heart of Parnell Village, Heard Park has just had an upgrade, becoming a fresh and vibrant destination for locals and visitors alike. The new play elements bring art and colour to the space and give tamariki a chance to have some fun on the main strip.

Come take a dip at Parnell pools.

Make a splash

Summer is just around the corner, and what better way to enjoy the warmer weather than to take a dip? These pools have recently benefitted from board funding, and open for the season in November.

A fabulous outdoor location with saltwater pools, Parnell Baths is celebrating 111 years in action. This seasonal complex is made up of a 60m lane pool, a heated lido pool ideal for the whole family, an aqua playground, and spa pools. And let’s not forget the view over Judges Bay! The local board has helped fund storm remediation to retain a slip above the pools which occurred during weather events in early 2023.

For those wanting an extra dose of adventure, Point Erin Pools has it all with a dive pool, small water slide and a land-based playground which has been given a glow up in the last couple of years. If swimming or chilling is more your kind of thing then there’s also a 33m pool and a family spa.

Prices at pool complexes start from $8-$11 for an adult, and children under 16 years old swim free in the main pools at both Point Erin and Parnell Baths.

Discover where Auckland’s bush tracks can take you, starting with the scenic route from Parnell Train Station.

Walking paths

Whether you’re wanting to get your step count up or find a more direct route to work, Waitematā has some great walking paths that cater to different needs. The board has injected some cash into the following projects not long ago:

Pukekawa / Auckland Domain now has a new pathway connection to Parnell Train Station thanks to funding from the local board, which is perfect for commuters or anyone wanting to visit the museum by train. The board is also working on an additional path from Football Road to The Crescent.

With a path entrance tucked away behind Grey Lynn Library, Arch Hill Scenic Reserve contains a surprisingly bushy walk in the inner-city suburbs, leading down to the open reserve space and playgrounds. Remedied earlier this year after storm and flood damage, the path is once again open to the public in its entirety.

It also leads to a series of mountain biking trails of varying difficulties. How good to be able to ride your mountain bike so centrally!

Bring the whānau along to have a play at Gladstone Park playground.

Playtime

Surrounded by seasonal flowerbeds and home to a community hall, Outhwaite Park in Grafton is situated on one of Auckland’s smallest volcanic cones. The playground underwent a revamp in recent years and is mostly built from natural materials like wood, blending in with the many trees lending shade to playing children.

Central Auckland: At the Heart of the City

From heritage restorations and urban upgrades to vibrant events and community-driven initiatives, Central Auckland continues to evolve as a dynamic and diverse hub. Here’s a look at the stories shaping the city centre this year:

Did we mention that Grey Lynn’s Arch Hill Scenic Reserve playground had a makeover? Full of obstacle courses for kids that like to climb, this one’s a hidden gem down the back streets of Grey Lynn. Pack the sunscreen and a hat, as this park has less shade than some.

Opposite Dove-Myer Robinson Park in Parnell, on a bend in Gladstone Road, is another one that’s obscured from view for passersby. Gladstone Park was renewed in 2023, boasting both a junior and big kids’ playground as well as a basketball half-court. Highlights include the accessible car and in-ground trampolines!