Last updated July 2026
Rocket Park is the popular name for the playground at Mount Albert War Memorial Park in Auckland. The park sits at 751-773 New North Road, Mount Albert, and features an iconic rocket-shaped climbing structure alongside other play equipment and sports facilities. The site also includes the Mount Albert War Memorial Hall, a community and leisure centre, and open green space. Auckland Council lists the park as having a well-equipped playground with the rocket feature, plus courts and a flying fox. The entire park is free to access and serves as a key suburban recreation hub for families and sports groups.
Practical Information
| Location | 751-773 New North Road, Mount Albert, Auckland |
| Also known as | Mt Albert War Memorial Park, Rocket Park |
| Playground features | Iconic rocket climbing structure, flying fox (behind leisure centre), other play equipment |
| Sports facilities | Netball courts, tennis courts, basketball half-court |
| Other facilities | Mount Albert War Memorial Hall, Senior Citizens Hall, YMCA Community and Leisure Centre, toilets, picnic tables, fitness equipment, parking (including accessible spaces) |
| Dogs | Must be on leash at all times |
| Cost | Free |
| Smokefree | Yes |
About Mount Albert War Memorial Park
Mount Albert War Memorial Park occupies a prominent corner site on New North Road and serves as a multi-purpose recreation area for the local community. The park combines a playground, sports courts, memorial buildings and open space within easy reach of surrounding suburbs. Auckland Council maintains the site with pathways, seating and parking, though some paths are steep.
The playground includes the well-known rocket climbing feature that gives the park its informal name. Additional equipment and a flying fox are located on site, with the flying fox positioned behind the leisure centre building. Grassy areas and mature trees provide space for picnics and informal play.
The park also houses the Mount Albert War Memorial Hall and Senior Citizens Hall, both available for bookings, along with the YMCA Community and Leisure Centre. These buildings sit centrally within the park and support community events and activities alongside the outdoor facilities.
The Rocket Climbing Structure
The rocket-shaped climber was constructed in 1967 by the Mt Albert Lions Club during the height of the Space Age. It remains a recognisable landmark along New North Road and continues to be a popular play feature after structural work and repainting that allowed reopening in 2014.
Sports and Recreation Facilities
Netball and tennis courts plus a basketball half-court are located behind the leisure centre. The park offers open grassy space for general use and fitness equipment near the playground. Pathways connect the different areas, making it convenient for visitors combining play, sport and relaxation.
What Visitors Often Say
Families appreciate the variety of play equipment including the distinctive rocket climber and the flying fox, noting it keeps children entertained for extended periods. The combination of playground and sports courts makes it a convenient spot for mixed-age groups.
Visitors often mention the large car park, nearby toilets and picnic tables as practical advantages. Some note the park feels well used by the local community for both casual play and organised sports.
Where to Learn More
Auckland Council – Mount Albert War Memorial Park: official page with facility details, maps and current park information.
Timespanner blog – Rocket Park history: local history post documenting the 1967 construction by the Mt Albert Lions Club.
Playgrounds.co.nz – Rocket Park 25-year feature: article noting the 2014 reopening of the rocket tower after upgrades.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Rocket Park located?
At Mount Albert War Memorial Park, 751-773 New North Road, Mount Albert, Auckland.
What is the rocket at Rocket Park?
An iconic rocket-shaped climbing structure built in 1967 by the Mt Albert Lions Club.
Is the rocket still open for climbing?
Yes, it was strengthened, repainted and reopened in 2014.
What sports facilities are available?
Netball courts, tennis courts and a basketball half-court.
Is there a flying fox?
Yes, located behind the leisure centre building.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, but they must be on a leash at all times.
Is the park free?
Yes, it is a free public park maintained by Auckland Council.
Are there toilets and parking?
Yes, toilets are available near the playground and there is a large off-street car park with accessible spaces.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.