Families in the Kumeū-Huapai area are set to enjoy exciting new park upgrades, with more than $800,000 being invested into playgrounds and outdoor spaces.
Thanks to funding from the Rodney Local Board, two parks in the Huapai Triangle will get major improvements.
Schoolside Road and Lumbarda Drive playground will be expanded with new equipment for older children, a games area, more picnic tables, and exercise features to make it a space for all ages.
Dida Park Drive will become a peaceful, nature-themed spot with new planting, garden swing seats, shaded spaces, and natural play elements.
Board chair Brent Bailey says the upgrades reflect what locals asked for in almost 120 submissions during public consultation.
“We’ve listened to the community and designed spaces that people of all ages can enjoy, whether it’s active play, games with family, or simply relaxing in a green, welcoming environment,” says Bailey.
What’s changing?
At Schoolside Road, you'll see:
- more picnic tables and seating
- a shade above the communal / social space
- fruit trees planted along the path
- a play area for older kids that includes exercise equipment
- a concrete space with game markings for playing different games
- a multi-sports goal on the open lawn
- a new ‘mum and bub’ swing
- a stronger focus on community and social spaces.
At Dida Park:
- better drainage for year-round use
- swing seats under a pergola
- nature play features
- a rubbish bin near the picnic area.
Local iwi Ngāti Whātua o Kaipara also shared ideas for cultural design and the use of native planting and natural materials. While some features like carvings and signage will need future funding or partnerships, iwi will continue to be involved in the design process.
The final park designs will be completed over the next few months. The consent and tender process is expected to be finished by the end of February 2026, but the exact dates for construction will be confirmed later.
You can find more about the upgrades in the Rodney Local Board business meeting documents from 17 September on the council website.
In addition, plans for a new skatepark at Huapai Domain are underway. Designs are expected to go to the local board for approval in early 2026, with more details on the final design and timeline to be shared closer to that time, promising another great spot for local youth to enjoy active outdoor recreation.
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