Kāwaroa Park Destination Playground in New Plymouth

By: Auckland for Kids
Last Updated: Wednesday 19 November 2025
Topics: Playgrounds, Travel

Kāwaroa Park has become one of the largest and most impressive destination playgrounds in Aotearoa. The playground sits above the rocky reef on the New Plymouth Coastal Walkway and offers a full day of play for tamariki teens and families. The space has been designed to bring together active play local culture and connection to the whenua.

Matariki Play Tower

The tall Matariki themed tower is the first thing families will notice. It rises above the coastline and offers climbing challenges for confident kids who love adventure. The views from the top look out across the water and the reef below.

Dynamic Play for School Aged Tamariki

There is a wide range of Kompan equipment that encourages movement strength coordination and imaginative play. Kids can spin, climb, swing and explore through large rope structures and active features suited to bigger kids who enjoy a challenge.

Warrior Zone for Teens and Adults

Older siblings teens and adults are included in the Warrior Zone. This section feels like an outdoor training course with strength tests and balance challenges. It is rare to find a playground that truly caters to every age group so this zone is a major drawcard for families.

Kinetic Powered Birdsong

A unique feature is the kinetic powered native birdsong. As tamariki move and explore the play space the sound of local manu fills the park. This adds a sense of magic and helps kids connect with the natural world around them.

Cultural Stories in the Design

Kāwaroa Park includes storytelling elements guided by Ngāti Te Whiti. These details highlight the history and significance of the whenua and the reef. The playground feels deeply connected to the local community through design artwork and cultural interpretation.

Practical Information for Families

Toilets

Public toilets are available on site near the playground area.

Parking

Parking is available along the streets close to the Coastal Walkway. It can be busy on sunny weekends so an early visit is helpful.

Shade

There is some shade from nearby trees along the boundary. Hats sunscreen and water are still important on bright days.

Suitable Ages

Kāwaroa Park works well for all ages.
• Toddlers enjoy the lower play features and wide open spaces
• School aged kids love the tower and climbing zones
• Teens enjoy the Warrior Zone and coastal views
• Adults can join in or relax nearby

Accessibility

Paths around the playground are smooth and suitable for prams mobility aids and wheelchairs. Some higher climbing features are better for confident climbers.

What Else is Nearby?

The Todd Energy Aquatic Centre sits next to the playground so families can pair a swim with a play session. The centre has three three outdoor pools open for summer and one inside pool with waves and a climbing wall open year round.

The Coastal Walkway is perfect for scooters bikes and prams that stretches 13km from Pioneer Park to Bell Block Beach. Picnic spots are dotted along the coastline with views of the reef. Discover Len Lye’s iconic Wind Wand; the Mothers and Daughters stone sculpture and the picture perfect Te Rewa Rewa Bridge with the view of Taranaki Maunga along the way.

Head to Hillsborough Holden Museum which is a 10 minute drive from the New Plymouth city centre, to race the kids down a fun luge track, play minigolf on a course based on the famous Mount Panarama track at Bathurst or visit the Museum to see the private collection of Holden cars.

Climb up the wooden staircase and then for the more adventurous onto the steep rocky climb to the top of Paritutu Rock and see the panoramic view over the Taranaki coastline.

Best Time to Visit

Low tide offers the best outlook over the rocky reef. Clear days give the strongest coastal views and make the tower climb extra rewarding. Weekday mornings are quieter while weekend afternoons are the busiest times.

Where is Kāwaroa Park in New Plymouth?

Kāwaroa Park Playground is located at 1 Tisch Avenue, New Plymouth Centre, New Zealand.

Who Helped Created the Playground

The playground was led by the Taranaki Foundation with creative guidance from Ngāti Te Whiti and support from New Plymouth District Council. It reflects strong community vision and pride and it delivers a top level play experience for locals and visitors.

Why Families Love It

Kāwaroa Park offers a full day of exploration challenge and cultural learning in a stunning coastal setting. It suits mixed age groups and provides activities that keep kids and teens engaged for hours.