Barry Curtis Park, in Auckland’s rapidly growing Flat Bush, is one of New Zealand’s largest urban parks. Thanks to a major upgrade from the Howick Local Board, the park is now more welcoming, functional, and vibrant than ever.
The park’s wetlands continue to play a vital role in managing stormwater while also offering scenic walking paths. The recent $1.3 million upgrade of the Wetlands Building, which provides essential facilities including toilets, shelter, and seating - makes it easier for everyone to enjoy nature in comfort.
Board chair Bruce Kendall says, “The Howick Local Board is proud to have delivered this essential upgrade. Covering 94 hectares, Barry Curtis Park welcomes many visitors, and this improved infrastructure ensures the park can support community events, daily use, and a safe, accessible experience for all.”
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 old Wetlands Building no longer met community needs,” says project manager Eva Wallace. “ Instead of a simple renewal, we reimagined the space to provide reliable toilets, shaded seating, and gathering areas - exactly what the community wanted.”
Community at the Heart
Every decision was guided by community feedback. Locals highlighted three priorities:
- safe, accessible public toilets
- spaces for birthdays and cultural events
- shaded seating throughout the park.
The design preserves the site’s heritage by retaining elements of the original steel-framed building and its connection to the wetlands.
This collaborative effort brought together Argon Constructors Limited, TSE Architects, and Auckland Council’s project team.
Eva reflects, “What I love most is seeing a tired, underused building transformed into a vibrant community space. It is not just about bricks and timber - it’s about listening, adapting, and creating something that truly belongs to the people who use it.”
All these facilities are open to the public and sit right next to the destination playground.
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