Wellington is proud to have more than one hundred parks and play areas. Of these, some that stand out for their enduring popularity with Wellingtonians. They are enjoyed as much for their suitability as picnic spots as for their play equipment and open space.
All Wellington City Council play areas are smoke-free areas.
Botanic Garden play area
Built around leafy slopes in the Botanic Garden, this play area has a rocktopus, double-pipe tube slides, swings, slides and flying fox. There are also picnic tables, toilets and an enclosed area for small children.
Central Park play area
Located on the fringe of Wellington's central business district this park on Brooklyn Road features a three cable flying fox, a six-metre high space ball climbing frame, spinner bowl, whirl and swings. The park also has a junior section with slides, swings, crawl tunnels, climbing net, seesaws and a springy racer. An upgrade in 2009 added new toilets near the playground and a mini-BMX track.
Cobblestone Park play area
An inner-city park, located on Vivian Street, next to Victoria University Faculty of Architecture and Design. The park was redeveloped in 2010 with new playground equipment, basketball half-court terrace, paths, lawns, trees, planter beds, lights, and seats.
Frank Kitts Park
On the waterfront, this popular park has a lighthouse slide and swings: Frank Kitts Park
Freyberg Park
Complementing one of Wellington's most popular beaches - Oriental Bay - this recently built play area has rope climbing equipment for older children, and a chunky bright climbing frame for toddlers. There are also picnic tables, toilets and car parks.
Karori Park play area
This park has European designed equipment and a flying fox, and is more suitable for older children. It is located next to the Karori Park pavilion, and links to Outer Green Belt walking tracks. There are public toilets nearby.
Khandallah Park play area
This is a native forest reserve with plenty of space, walking tracks, and an outdoor summer pool. Located on Woodmancote Road, Khandallah, the play area includes a flying fox, a new junior play complex, and a giant rock climbing structure for the older children. Parking is available at the end of the street, and there is a café next to the pool.
Nairnville Park play area
On the corner of Cockayne Road and Lucknow Terrace, Khandallah, this park has a play area suitable for all age groups. There is a 13-metre fibreglass slide and large play structure.
The Crescent play area
Overlooking Wellington harbour from The Crescent, Roseneath, this small park has panoramic views of the city. There are picnic tables, swings and slides. The park links to Town Belt walkways on Mount Victoria. There are no toilets and parking is limited.
Shorland Park
Anchoring Island Bay beach to The Parade, this park has a long slide, swings, pirate ship, junior area and basketball half-court. There are also picnic tables, changing sheds, toilets, and a covered band rotunda.
Waitangi Park
An inner city / waterfront park that has facilities for the older age groups including skate ramp, petanque and street ball court: Waitangi Park
Bookings
Parks can be booked for events.