Central Auckland Playgrounds

Potters Park Mount Eden: Playground, Splash Pad and Family Facilities

Last updated July 2026

Potters Park is a 3-hectare reserve at the corner of Balmoral Road and Dominion Road in Mount Eden, Auckland. It features Auckland’s first dedicated water splash pad, which opened in 2013, along with a playground, basketball court, band rotunda and learn-to-ride track. The park offers flat, accessible paths and is popular with families for play and relaxation. Public transport via the Outer Link bus routes provides easy access, and entry is free.

Practical Information

Address 173 Balmoral Road, Mount Eden — corner of Balmoral and Dominion Roads
Park size 3 hectares
Named after Frederick Seymour Potter, philanthropist who gifted the land
Splash pad Auckland’s first water splash pad — opened 2013; summer only, 10am to 8pm seven days
Playground equipment Slides, swings, rockers, seesaw, climbing frames
Other facilities Basketball court near playground, band rotunda, learn-to-ride track (eastern end)
Accessibility Accessible toilets and changing rooms next to playground/splash pad; flat or gradually sloping paths suitable for prams and wheelchairs
Public transport Outer Link bus routes on Balmoral Road and Dominion Road
Cost Free

About Potters Park

Potters Park occupies a prominent 3-hectare site on the corner of Balmoral and Dominion Roads in Mount Eden. The reserve was gifted to the former Mt Eden Borough Council by Frederick Seymour Potter, a local businessman and benefactor, to provide recreational space for the community. Its open lawns and mature trees reflect the early 20th-century design intent for a family-friendly public park.

The playground and splash pad form the main draw for visitors. Conventional equipment including slides, swings, rockers, a seesaw and climbing frames surrounds the central splash pad. The splash pad, opened in 2013, was Auckland’s first dedicated water play feature and operates only during summer from 10am to 8pm daily.

Additional facilities support a range of activities. A basketball court sits near the playground, the band rotunda hosts occasional community events, and a learn-to-ride track is located at the eastern end of the reserve. The park’s central location makes it convenient for local families and passers-by.

Accessibility

Potters Park provides good accessibility for an older reserve. Paths are flat or gradually sloping and suitable for prams, mobility aids and recreational cycling. Accessible toilets and changing rooms are located directly beside the playground and splash pad, avoiding the need to cross the full reserve.

What Else Is in the Park

Beyond the play area, the park includes a basketball court, band rotunda and learn-to-ride track. The Outer Link bus service runs along both Balmoral Road and Dominion Road, offering straightforward public transport access from surrounding suburbs.

What Visitors Often Say

Families appreciate the combination of water play, shaded areas and open space that keeps children entertained for extended visits. The central location and easy bus access are frequently noted as practical advantages for regular local use.

Reviewers highlight the band rotunda, mature trees and overall pleasant atmosphere for relaxed outings. The splash pad is described as a standout feature that draws repeat visits during warmer months.

Where to Learn More

Auckland Council — Potters Park: official page with facility details, splash pad hours and current conditions.

Auckland NZ — Potters Park: visitor information and overview of park features.

NumatREC — Potters Park Playground case study: details on the splash pad and playground design and installation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Potters Park?
173 Balmoral Road, Mount Eden, on the corner of Balmoral and Dominion Roads.

What is special about Potters Park’s splash pad?
It was Auckland’s first dedicated water splash pad, opened in 2013.

When does the splash pad run?
Summer only, typically 10am to 8pm seven days a week.

Is Potters Park accessible?
Yes, paths are flat or gradually sloping and suitable for prams and wheelchairs. Accessible toilets and changing rooms are located next to the playground and splash pad.

How do I get to Potters Park on public transport?
The Outer Link bus runs along both Balmoral Road and Dominion Road.

What other facilities are at Potters Park?
A basketball court near the playground, a band rotunda, and a learn-to-ride track at the eastern end.

Is Potters Park free?
Yes, it is a free public park.

Who was Frederick Seymour Potter?
A local philanthropist and businessman who gifted the land for the park to the former Mt Eden Borough Council.

Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.