Play is the theme in Tāmaki Makaurau this October thanks to Celebrating Play, which aims to inspire Aucklanders to do just that… play! And where else to get unlimited fun for the whole whānau than at newly upgraded playgrounds spread across the city?
These playground upgrades are something to get genuinely excited about - they’re vibrant, thoughtfully designed spaces that serve as vital hubs for whānau and communities. They’re also helping to create environments that foster imagination, encourage physical development, and help forge connections.
Consider these play spaces an open invitation to step outside, breathe deep, and remember that some of the best moments can be found on a swing, a slide, or at the top of a climbing structure. Check out the list below, rediscover these play spaces and consider your next outing with whānau sorted.
West Onewherowhero / Brains Park, Kelston:
From climbing challenges to swings and slides, this playground has something for every age - perfect for kids who love to climb, spin and balance.
Located on the Kelston peninsula, you’ll find the ideal spot for all types of recreational activities including basketball, tennis and a massive sports field to use at your leisure. This epic sports park has been revitalised to be more engaging for a wider age group with upgrades offering a great mix of climbing, balancing, and spinning equipment for older kids, as well as slides and swings for the little ones.
The new design also incorporates accessible paths and seating, making it a more inclusive space for all Aucklanders to enjoy.
Keen on going for a bike ride with friends and family? Check out the bike path from the nearby Archibald Park (where you’ll also find a great playground, basketball court and modular pump track). This 30-minute cruise to Brains Park takes you along the Whau River with plenty of opportunities throughout for a scenic family picnic or restful stops with a view.
North Collins Park, Greenhithe:
Come have a play at the stunning Collings Park playground.
This accessible playground offers endless fun with twin slides, in-ground trampoline, swings and even a nearby skate park for active kids.
This Greenhithe playground has been completely refreshed with a new design which features a multi-play fort with slides and climbing activities, a basket swing, a low climbing frame and an in-ground trampoline to jump around at your heart’s content. Upgrades also include new accessible pathways and shaded seating.
Don’t forget to check out the skate park nearby. You’ll find a wide concrete footpath with a dedicated scooter and bike rack to encourage tamariki to get to and from the playground in a safe and exciting way. Make the most of the picnic tables in the shaded areas; drinking fountain available to hydrate your whānau as needed.
For a high-quality play experience for the younger people, check out the new playground further up north at 86 Harvest Avenue, Ōrewa. While its design targets tamariki to 13-year-olds, this modern playground has something for everyone. There’s a junior climbing module with a sand play deck, toddler swings, a seesaw rocker and carousel, and for those keen on a challenge there’s the treehouse-style rope climbing frame with a high slide. T
his spot also features inclusive play and access with a wheelchair-accessible trampoline, musical bridge, talk tubes and a net spinner with an accessible base. There’s also a nature play trail with logs, beams and steppers, picnic tables and new plantings that complete the setting.
East Annalong Park, Dannemora:
A brand-new playground invites adventure with a huge climbing tower, twisting tube slide, spinning circle, swings and a new path linking straight to the basketball court.
In Dannemora, Annalong Park has undergone a significant refresh, transforming its previously simple playground into an exciting play space featuring a massive climbing structure, a twisting tube slide, a spinning circle and a fresh concrete pathway that provides direct access to the basketball court. Make the most of the benches and large green spaces available around the playground - have a play or enjoy a family picnic.
South Te Āhiki / Rock Daisy Crescent Reserve, Māngere:
Come have a play on the see-saw at Rock Daisy Park.
This upgraded playground has it all – swings, slides, spinning fun and a nature play zone for curious explorers, plus seating, picnic spots and inclusive communication boards for everyone to enjoy.
This once simple play space in Māngere is no more – Rock Daisy rocks a whole new look nowadays! Upgrades include new swings, a slide, spinning structure, nature play area, fun jumping and balancing equipment, picnic tables, and open lawn areas for play or picnics.
Another welcome addition is the communication and sign language board to support inclusive play – if you’re not already familiar, give it a go.
Waiheke Island Little Oneroa Reserve Playground:
The sun cover at Oneroa Playground ensures kids can play and avoid the upcoming summer rays.
Set beside the beach, this upgraded playground blends sand and sea with a sandy play surface, open lawns and a large white sand area perfect for games and play.
For those after a seaside location, check out this popular Waiheke Island beach playground. The new design includes a range of equipment to keep young ones entertained, making it an ideal spot for a full day of family fun at one of the island's most loved beaches.
Located at a walking distance from Oneroa Village for the explorers; for the hiking enthusiasts, follow the 3.3km Three Beaches Path to a scenic walk and epic views of the Hauraki Gulf and Tamaki Strait; for those keen to stick around the playground, be sure to make the most of the picnic tables, barbecue and drinking fountains on your next whānau outing.
So what are you waiting for? These upgraded playgrounds offer so much more than fun; they're vital outdoor classrooms that provide a space for us to climb higher, grow stronger, and connect as a whānau and community. Whether it’s October or not, celebrate play at these locations – you won’t regret swinging by.
