Make the most and soak up summer: you don’t have to go far to have a good time

Chasing fresh air, free fun, or a chill spot with whānau/family or friends? Your neighbourhood is full of ways to enjoy time together.

With free events, local talent, and some of the best play spaces, funded and supported by Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board, now is the perfect time to get out, explore, and make the most of summer.

Two renewed parks right next to each other? Sounds like the perfect any-day park-hopping adventure.

1. Waenganui / Allenby Park

This popular park just got a fresh upgrade, making it one of the easiest places in Papatoetoe to have a great day out without spending a cent.

Thanks to $678,000 funding from the Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board (who look after local parks, one of the fun parts of the job), there’s heaps to keep everyone moving and smiling. Access the park from Allenby Road, with a pedestrian entry off Great South Road too.

What’s better now?

a skate bowl that’s had a tidy refresh
new half basketball and volleyball courts
sunshades
a smooth, level rubber surface makes it easy to get around and reach all the fun bits of the playground
there’s a carousel and basket swing everyone can enjoy, including kids using wheelchairs
high swings, the roktopus spinner, supernova, and play module are all easy to get to
public toilets.

And woven into the name Waenganui is a story of connection - a reminder that this place has always brought people together, from its historic portage routes to today’s community gatherings.

2. Kimpton Park, Papatoetoe

Around the corner from Waenganui/Allenby, Kimpton Park just received a glow-up with a fully renewed playground … this $400,000 refresh was funded by the local board, and the design reflects what our community asked for.

Access is easy via walkways from Kimpton Road or Cornwall Road, and inside you’ll find:

swings, climbing modules, a tunnel, small slide, talking tubes, a space net, and even a ‘dancing snake’ balancing trail
a volleyball court
there’s room for a game of kick-a-ball or just chilling on the lawn
new pathways will make it easier to get around, and rubbish bins will help keep it tidy
bring your kai/food - there are picnic tables and seating so you can relax and enjoy.

There is no lighting at the playground, helping keep the park safe and peaceful after dark. It’s all set for you to make the most of.

3. Water fun

A father playing with his daughters in the pool.

Beat the heat with free-entry swimming for all at Ōtara and Papatoetoe Centennial pools and leisure centres. Outdoor pools open from 13 December until March. Ramp access and pool handrails is available at Ōtara, and anyone who needs help getting into the water can bring support.

4. Your “Th-FREE” weekends are sorted

March/April 2026 is stacked with three weekends of totally FREE, totally epic events:

Movie in the Parks 2026 - 7 March 2026 (Kohuora Park Papatoetoe, 4:30pm – 8:30pm). Bring a blanket, grab your snacks, and settle in under the stars. The best part? It’s totally free.
Southside Represent - 21 March 2026 (Westfield Manukau carpark). A celebration of culture, creativity, and the power of local talent. Expect performances, art, kai, music, and the best of Southside pride.
Diversity Festival 2026 - 11 April 2026 (Dew Drop Events Centre Manukau, 11am – 4pm). All the colour, culture, and energy in one place. The perfect festival to bring your whānau, friends, and neighbours together.