Last updated July 2026
Waterview Reserve (also known as Oakley Park) is a popular family destination in west Auckland featuring a well-equipped playground, water play area, learn-to-ride bike track, skateboard and scooter tracks, full-sized basketball court and beach volleyball court. The park sits at 19 Herdman Street, Waterview, and includes accessible toilets next to the playground along with paths connecting to the Waterview Heritage Area and Te Auaunga (Oakley Creek). The splash pad operates seven days a week from 10am to 8pm during summer. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times.
Practical Information
| Park | Waterview Reserve / Oakley Park, 19 Herdman Street, Waterview, Auckland |
| Playground features | Well-equipped playground with 5-metre tube slide, climbing nets, tunnels, spiral stair tower, swings and more |
| Water play | Splash pad / interactive water play area |
| Splash pad hours | Summer only, 10am to 8pm seven days a week |
| Bike tracks | Learn-to-ride bike track and BMX track |
| Skate facilities | Skateboard and scooter tracks with boxes, steps, rails, ramps and half-pipe |
| Sports courts | Full-sized basketball court and beach volleyball court |
| Other facilities | Whare structure for shade and shelter, accessible toilets, accessible paths |
| Cost | Free |
| Dogs | Must be on leash at all times |
About Waterview Reserve
Waterview Reserve serves as a recreational hub in west Auckland with a mix of play equipment, water features and active recreation options that attract families from across the city. The playground includes a prominent 5-metre tube slide connected to an octagon-shaped tower with an internal spiral staircase, along with climbing nets, tunnels through mounds and other traditional equipment. A sand play area forms part of the quieter zones suitable for younger children.
The central splash pad provides interactive water play that operates only in summer. The facility draws crowds on warm days, making early or late visits advisable for a less crowded experience. A whare structure offers shade and shelter nearby.
Paths link the play areas to the adjacent Waterview Heritage Area, which features the old tannery boiler and a bridge over Te Auaunga (Oakley Creek). The park supports a range of ages and abilities with accessible paths and toilets.
Skate Park, Pump Track and Sports Courts
The skateboard and scooter tracks cater to beginner and intermediate users with a variety of boxes, steps, rails, ramps, mounds, ledges and a half-pipe. Adjacent bike facilities include a learn-to-ride track for small riders and a BMX track for more adventurous cyclists. A full-sized basketball court and beach volleyball court complete the active recreation options on site.
Access and Facilities
Accessible car parking is available at the Waterbank Crescent entrance. Accessible footpaths connect the main play areas, toilets and heritage section. The park is smokefree, alcohol is banned in line with Auckland rules, and open fires are prohibited. Bins are provided for waste.
What Visitors Often Say
Families appreciate the variety of activities in one location, including the splash pad, playground equipment and skate facilities that keep children of different ages entertained for hours.
Visitors note the park works well as a half-day outing with good shade structures, accessible toilets and nearby heritage paths for a change of pace.
Where to Learn More
Auckland Council – Waterview Reserve: official page with current facilities, access details and rules.
Boffa Miskell – Waterview Reserve Playground: design background including community consultation process.
Numatrec – Waterview Reserve Playground case study: equipment details and project overview.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Waterview Reserve located?
At 19 Herdman Street, Waterview, in west Auckland. It is also known as Oakley Park.
When does the splash pad operate?
During summer only, seven days a week from 10am to 8pm.
What bike facilities are available?
A learn-to-ride bike track for small riders and a BMX track for more experienced users.
Is there a skate park?
Yes, skateboard and scooter tracks with boxes, steps, rails, ramps, mounds, ledges and a half-pipe.
Are there sports courts?
Yes, a full-sized basketball court and a beach volleyball court.
Are toilets available?
Yes, accessible toilets located next to the playground.
Is the park free to use?
Yes, Waterview Reserve is a free public park.
What are the dog rules?
Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times.
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