Families, sports players and outdoor enthusiasts can look forward to some exciting changes at Huapai Recreation Reserve, with the Rodney Local Board adopting the Huapai Recreation Reserve Site Development Plan.
The plan sets out a 20-year vision for the reserve, helping guide future investment and improvements as the Kumeū-Huapai area continues to grow.
Rodney Local Board Chair Guy Wishart says the site development plan provides a clear direction for one of Rodney’s most popular recreation spaces.
“Huapai Domain is at the heart of the local community. This site development plan gives us a roadmap for future investment so the reserve can continue to support recreation, sport, and community wellbeing as our area grows,” says Wishart.
More than $10.4 million has been allocated to the project through to 2030, with several improvements already planned.
In the short term, residents can expect to see the designated training field relocated and upgraded with floodlighting, concept designs completed for a new destination playground wheel play facility and fitness hub, additional planting and pathway connections throughout the reserve. Investigations to renew and widen the existing accessway into the reserve to address historic constraints, improve visibility and enhance safety for vehicles and pedestrians will also be undertaken.
A major highlight of the plan is a new destination playground, replacing the reserve’s ageing playgrounds. Inspired by the site's strong sporting history, the playground will be designed for all ages and abilities, with opportunities for climbing, racing, jumping and active play, alongside seating, shade and picnic areas.
A new destination wheel play facility is also planned. The space will cater for various wheel sports such as skateboards, scooters, BMX bikes and roller skates, creating a regional attraction for riders of different ages and skill levels.
There are also plans for more shade trees, biodiversity planting, a bush walk around the southern pond and investigations into a future dog exercise area.
Importantly, existing facilities for football, cricket and netball will remain, while space is being protected for a potential indoor multi-sport facility if funding becomes available in the future.
“This isn’t just about new facilities,” says Wishart. “It’s about creating a reserve where people can play, be active, connect with nature and spend time with family and friends. We’re excited to see this vision start to take shape.”
The Huapai Recreation Reserve Site Development Plan will guide decision-making and investment over the next two decades, helping ensure the reserve continues to serve the needs of the growing north-west Auckland community.
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