At the heart of Māngere East, Walter Massey Park continues to be one of the area’s key community spaces - home to sports clubs, community organisations, and everyday recreation for local whānau / family.
The space has been made even better with a new playground upgrade.
Spanning over 16 hectares, the park also hosts:
- multiple sports clubs
- Māngere East Library
- Māngere East Hall (Metro Theatre)
- Strive Community Trust
- Māngere East Community CentreSamoa Atia’e I Magele
Board chair Kaea Walter Inoke-Togiamua says, “The recent playground upgrade at Walter Massey Park reflects what the Māngere-Ōtāhuhu Local Board has consistently heard from the community: the need for safe, accessible, and engaging spaces for tamariki/children and rangatahi/youth, along with facilities that support active lifestyles and social connection for everyone.
“Enjoy it, respect it, and take pride in looking after it - help keep it safe, welcoming, and clean for everyone. By continuing to invest locally, the board is helping ensure parks like Walter Massey Park remain vibrant and well-used for generations to come.”
The playground upgrade was delivered over seven weeks, from 27 January to 20 March 2026, following community feedback.
Outdated and damaged equipment and surfacing were removed and replaced with modern, durable, and more wide-ranging play elements designed to encourage physical activity, creativity, and interaction.
What’s new?
- a 2.7-metre tower with slides
- climbing elements
- sensory play panels
- alongside a 7-metre rope sky climber with multiple net levels
- the addition of new cushioning and improved edging also enhances safety and usability for families.
Further improvements are also being considered, including upgraded fitness equipment and a new volleyball court.
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