Last updated October 2026
Te Kawerau ā Maki gifted the name Te Poi to Starling Park in Ranui, likening the swing and spin of poi to the twisting flight of the tāringi, or starling.
The Starling Park Skatepark sits within this large, flat West Auckland sports reserve off Glen Road. It’s a compact street-style area with ramps, rails and ledges, including beams to slide along. A playground, basketball court, fitness equipment and toilets are all in the same park. That makes it an easy stop for a family where not everyone skates.
Practical Information
- Location
- Te Poi / Starling Park, 34–44 Glen Road (car park off Glen Road)
- Suburb
- Ranui, West Auckland
- Features
- Ramps, rails, ledges and slide beams
- Suits
- Beginners to experienced skaters (Skate Finder)
- Toilets
- Yes, in the park
- Nearby
- Playground, basketball court, fitness equipment, sports fields, 900 m loop path
- Cost
- Free
- Managed by
- Auckland Council (Henderson-Massey Local Board area)
About Starling Park Skatepark
Starling Park is first and foremost a sports ground. It’s the home of Ranui Swanson Football Club, whose clubrooms overlook the fields, and the council describes it as a large flat grass reserve with something for all ages. The skatepark is one of several small facilities dotted along its path network.
No bowl is listed in any of the sources. Skate Finder describes a park with ramps, rails and ledges that suits everyone from beginners to experienced skaters, and a council photo caption points to a section with ramps and beams to slide along. It’s a local spot for learning to drop in or practising slides.
The name story adds some depth to a plain suburban park. In a 2023 OurAuckland article, Te Kawerau ā Maki explained that Te Poi connects with the park in several ways: the movement of poi echoes the starling’s flight, and the whistling poi āwhiowhio, once used to attract birds, is matched today by the whistles heard at the park on sports days.
Around Te Poi / Starling Park
Auckland Council lists a playground with swings, a basketball court with hoops, fitness equipment, a drinking fountain, benches and picnic tables, and sports fields with floodlights. Trees around the edge give shade for a picnic. The 900 m Starling Park Path loops the reserve, linking the fields, playground and toilets.
Cars use the car park off Glen Road. On foot, you can come in from Starling Place, Frostbite Place or several entrances along Waitemata Drive.
Where to Learn More
Auckland Council: Te Poi / Starling Park: entrances, facilities and the loop path.
OurAuckland: Te Kawerau ā Maki gift Māori name in Henderson-Massey: the story behind the name Te Poi.
Skate Finder: Starling Skatepark: a short overview of the obstacles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Starling Park Skatepark?
In Te Poi / Starling Park, 34–44 Glen Road, Ranui, West Auckland. The car park is off Glen Road.
What does Te Poi mean for this park?
Te Kawerau ā Maki chose the name because the movement of poi resembles the twisting and turning of the starling.
What features does the skatepark have?
Ramps, rails, ledges and beams to slide along. No bowl is listed.
Is it good for beginners?
Skate Finder says it suits all levels, from beginners to experienced skaters.
Is it free?
Yes. It’s in a public council park.
Are there toilets?
Yes. Toilets are on the park’s path network.
What else is in the park?
A playground, basketball court, fitness equipment, sports fields and a 900 m loop path.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.