Barry Curtis Park is a 94-hectare regional park in Flat Bush, south Auckland, one of the largest purpose-built parks in New Zealand. Opened in stages from 2011, the park was designed around a restored wetland stream and offers a wide range of facilities — walking and cycling paths, playgrounds, a skate ramp, sports fields, a basketball court, toilets, and extensive parking. It is a popular destination for families, runners, cyclists, and dog owners from across the Manukau and Howick areas.
Practical Information
| Location | Flat Bush, east Auckland — main entrances off Chapel Road, Stancombe Road, and Flat Bush School Road |
| Entry | Free |
| Gate hours | 7am–8:30pm (daylight saving) | 7am–6:30pm (winter) |
| Path length | ~4km fully paved loop (John Walker Promenade) |
| Facilities | Toilets, playgrounds, skate ramp, basketball court, sports fields, drinking fountains, picnic tables, car parks |
| Dogs | On lead in most areas; check signage for current restrictions |
| Managed by | Auckland Council |
About the Park
Barry Curtis Park was developed on former farmland around the Otara Creek catchment in Flat Bush, with ecological restoration forming a central part of the design. The park is named after Barry Curtis, a long-serving mayor of Manukau City, and was planned as a centrepiece for growing Flat Bush residential area. The main path — the John Walker Promenade, named after New Zealand’s Olympic gold medallist — formss a fully paved loop of approximately 4 kilometres around the park’s wetland and open grass areas.
The path is flat and smooth, making it popular for walking, jogging, cycling, and rollerblading. A number of drinking fountains are positioned along the route, including near the skate park and on the John Walker Promenade itself. Picnic tables and seating are available throughout.
Playgrounds and Facilities
The park has an ecologically themed playground near the Stancombe Road entrance, designed to reflect the natural features of the surrounding environment. A skate ramp and basketball court are accessible from Chapel Road. Sports fields along Flat Bush School Road cater to organised sports. Accessible toilets and changing rooms are available at several points around the park.
The park is one of the venues for Auckland’s Parkrun series — a free, untimed 5km held every Saturday morning, open to all fitness levels. It is also a popular training route for local running and cycling groups.
Wetland and Ecology
The restored Otara Creek wetland running through the heart of the park supports native plantings and provides habitat for wetland birds. Pūkeko and kererū are regularly spotted in and around the park. The wetland areas are accessible from the main path via several side routes and boardwalk sections.
What visitors say
“Great park for a family day out — the playground is good for the kids and the path around the wetland is an easy loop. Facilities are well maintained.” — visitor account, Google Reviews
“Perfect for a morning run. Flat, paved, and long enough to get a decent distance in. The drinking fountains along the route are a nice touch.” — visitor account, AllTrails
Where to learn more
Auckland Council — Barry Curtis Park: Official park details including facilities, access points, and opening hours.
AllTrails — Barry Curtis Path: Route map and visitor reviews for the main path loop.
Parkrun Barry Curtis: Details for the free weekly Saturday morning 5km event held at the park.
FAQ
Where is Barry Curtis Park?
The park is in Flat Bush, east Auckland. The main entrances are off Chapel Road, Stancombe Road, and Flat Bush School Road.
How long is the walking path at Barry Curtis Park?
The John Walker Promenade — the main paved loop — is approximately 4 kilometres. The full path is flat and suitable for walking, running, and cycling.
Is Barry Curtis Park free?
Yes — entry is free. The car parks are also free within gate hours (7am–8:30pm in summer, 7am–6:30pm in winter).
Are dogs allowed at Barry Curtis Park?
Dogs must be on a lead in most areas of the park. Check Auckland Council signage at access points for current rules on specific sections.
Is there a Parkrun at Barry Curtis Park?
Yes — a free, untimed 5km Parkrun takes place every Saturday morning at Barry Curtis Park. Registration on the Parkrun website is required before your first run.
What facilities are at Barry Curtis Park?
The park has public toilets and changing rooms, playgrounds, a skate ramp, a basketball court, sports fields, drinking fountains, picnic tables, and multiple car parks.
Barry Curtis Park is one of south Auckland’s most complete recreational parks. For more parks and reserves across the region, see the Auckland Parks and Reserves guide.
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