Families and friends love gathering to play, unwind, and enjoy time together at Red Beach Park on William Bayes Road — a favourite local spot just a short stroll from the beach.
With support from the Hibiscus and Bays Local Board and the wider community, the park keeps evolving into a place that’s not only fun but cherished by locals.
Red Beach residents Tamara Eyre and Claire Torckler absolutely love spending time there and share how the park enriches their family life and community connections.
Tamara says: “My three-year-old has a blast jumping across the balance logs, climbing on the playground frames, and zooming down the flying fox and he's beyond excited for the new pump track. It’s such a fantastic space that encourages outdoor play and brings the community together. We’ve even made some lifelong friends there.”
Claire adds: “We love the park and all it has to offer our family and the community. The playground caters for a range of ages and the large field next to it is perfect for kicking a ball around with our toddler. We spent hours down there last summer when the temporary pump track was there and we're so excited to hear there will be a permanent one built next year. I imagine we will be there most days with our wheels.”
Shaped by the community
Local school kids played a big role in shaping the playground over a decade ago. They wanted to do fun things and their presentation to the local board had ideas for new play options and activities for older kids, too. The playground has swings, climbing frames, slides, a flying fox, and paths where younger kids can safely learn to ride.
The park’s a go-to spot for birthday parties and celebrations, where every day play turns into special memories.
The sports fields at Red Beach are well used by local clubs and community groups for games and training. After lights were installed, and with the fields fully lit, locals train and stay active well into the evening.
A natural space to explore
The new balancing log trail is a big hit with visitors of all ages. Installed earlier this year, it’s designed to help kids and adults build balance, develop coordination, and have fun together.
Large logs, cut from a Norfolk pine donated by a homeowner in Ōrewa, were used for the trail. The project was made possible with local board funding as part of the council’s broader commitment to creating outdoor spaces where people can move, explore and connect with nature.
Play Portfolio Lead Jacquelyn Collins says: “Play opportunities like this remind us that play is all around us and it’s not limited to playgrounds. Kids can have just as much fun climbing trees, balancing on logs, and exploring what nature puts in their path.”
Families and their dogs have lots of open grass and a nearby sports field is perfect for games and running around. There’s also a toilet block and a water fountain nearby to help everyone stay refreshed.
Planting builds community, too
Volunteers meet at the park to connect, make new friends, and contribute to local restoration efforts.
Planting native species like oioi (Apodasmia similis), supported by local board funding, is helping to improve drainage and enhance biodiversity in the park’s wetter areas.
Restore Hibiscus and Bays Senior Restoration Advisor Deborah Colson says: “The planting does more than just improve the space and support wildlife. It brings people together and creates a place the whole community can be proud of and enjoy for years to come.”
What’s next: a pump track
Riders of all levels will soon have something new with a pump track in the pipeline. There will be a beginner section for those just starting out and an advanced track for older, more confident riders.
Earlier this year residents proposed the track, with the local board confirming that $540,000 funding had already been earmarked for the project.
Multiple riders will be able to ride together and watch the action from a social area. A draft design will be shared with the community following engagement with track specialists and then it won’t be too long to wait with the track’s construction planned for next year.
To explore more parks and outdoor spots in Hibiscus and Bays, visit the council website at Find a park or beach.
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