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.
Check out some of these improvements supported by Howick Local Board and make the most of what’s on offer in your community.
Wetlands Building, Barry Curtis Park, Flat Bush
Flat Bush is one of Auckland’s fastest-growing communities! At the heart of it all is Barry Curtis Park, one of the country’s largest urban parks. The space is being transformed into a more welcoming, fun place for everyone.
What’s new?
- an extended pavilion cover provides extra shelter and comfort for sports teams, families, and community gatherings, rain or shine
- fresh landscaping is creating a greener, more inviting space to relax and enjoy
- new seating and upgraded park furniture mean more spots to sit, gather, and soak up the park atmosphere
- a brand-new, modern toilet facility that is safer, cleaner, and more accessible for all park users.
The new toilet facilities are already open, and the destination playground and other upgrades are set to open in late November, just in time for summer!
Annalong Park playground gets a makeover
The Annalong Park playground renewal in Dannemora kicked off in March this year and was ready just in time for the term one school holidays.
What’s new?
A towering climbing structure, twisting tube slide, spinning circle, planting and updated swing set - all connected by a new concrete path leading to the basketball court.
This upgrade also reflects the great feedback received during the consultation on play spaces across our area, helping shape more exciting play spaces for our community.
A magical place given a fresh sparkle
Set on seven acres of heritage gardens and grounds, Howick Historical Village at Lloyd Elsmore Park is a living history museum that immerses visitors in life from 1840 to 1880.
You may have noticed some much-needed architectural TLC at our local gem.
Thanks to an Auckland Council Regional Historic Heritage grant, the team were able to install heat pumps to help protect the interiors. With the added support of a local board grant, the village also cleaned the interiors and secured paint for a much needed repaint. It’s all part of a wider commitment to supporting local providers, preserving treasured sites, and investing in infrastructure that protects our shared history.
New staircase at Marine Parade enhances safety and bay access
The renewal of the key stair access point at Marine Parade has improved safety and accessibility to the Mellons Bay foreshore.
The southern staircase opposite 38 Marine Parade (pictured) has been upgraded with structural repairs and an extended lower landing to make foreshore access safer for everyone. The deteriorated northern staircase opposite 90 Marine Parade has been permanently removed. The accessway is supported by timber Small End Diameter (SED) poles.
What are SED poles? These are tapered timber poles measured at their narrowest end to ensure strength and safety. Using SED poles means the structure is built to hold up under pressure, blending durability with a natural look, perfect for coastal environments.
In addition, a new concept is being explored for a pedestrian landing to improve access to the lower rock formation.
Elm Park, Pakūranga Heights gets a top-to-bottom facility makeover
The changing rooms and toilet facilities at Elm Park have had a well-deserved glow up - turning a tired old building into a cleaner, safer, and more welcoming space. With a full infrastructure upgrade, the facility now features a new roof and guttering, vandal-resistant toilet seats, fresh paint, repaired showers, and modern LED lighting.
Smart, long-lasting features include:
- natural light through clear roof sheets
- high-performance flooring with a 25-year warranty, durable, low-maintenance, and vibrant
- augmented-reality coded signage for quick issue reporting and easy maintenance
- safety-first design with GIB-lined block walls to prevent hazards (like hidden gaps, cavities or crevices).
Throwing shade where it counts
A much-needed shade structure has been added to the William Green Domain playground in Highland Park, improving comfort, safety, and year-round usability for visitors.
This upgrade enhances one of East Auckland’s key recreational hubs - a site known for its artificial turf pitches, clubrooms, and strong community ties. The Domain continues to grow as a space where sport, heritage, and community life come together.
