Last updated July 2026
Kauri Heart Park Playground in Takanini serves as a central play space for a new housing development in South Auckland. It opened in May 2022 and features distinctive climbing equipment designed through collaboration with local iwi. The park includes a prominent KOMPAN Butterfly structure along with a custom tower and additional play elements such as swings and a spinner. Families appreciate the accessible features and shaded areas that support extended visits. The playground reflects input from Auckland Council, Te Ākitai Waiohua and Waahi Wairua designs.
Practical Information
| Location | Kauri Heart Avenue, Takanini, South Auckland (within new housing development) |
| Opened | May 2022 |
| Centrepiece | KOMPAN Butterfly — large blue climbing rope-and-steel frame with unusual angles, hang-out spaces and accessible sensory features |
| Custom tower | PlatinumPlay tower — accessible stairs, 2 m tube slide, ground-level interactive panels |
| Other equipment | Kompan Wehopper spinner, 3 m swings including basket swing and Duo Swings seat |
| Accessibility | Accessible stairs on tower; ground-level interactive panels; well-maintained paths |
| Cultural input | Designed with Auckland Council, Te Ākitai Waiohua and Waahi Wairua designs |
| Other facilities | Shaded areas, picnic spots |
| Cost | Free |
About Kauri Heart Park Playground
Kauri Heart Park Playground occupies a central position in the Takanini neighbourhood development. The design emerged from collaboration between Auckland Council, Te Ākitai Waiohua and Waahi Wairua designs, with the playground officially opened in May 2022 by local councillors.
The standout feature is the KOMPAN Butterfly, a large blue climbing structure made from rope and steel. It offers varied climbing angles, integrated seating areas and sensory elements suitable for a range of abilities.
Adjacent to the Butterfly stands the custom PlatinumPlay tower. This structure provides accessible stairs, a 2-metre tube slide and interactive panels at ground level that allow younger children or those with mobility needs to participate without climbing.
Additional equipment includes a Kompan Wehopper for spinning and rocking play, plus a set of 3-metre swings featuring a basket swing and Duo Swings seat. These elements support dynamic and social play for different age groups.
Cultural Design Input
The playground design incorporated contributions from Te Ākitai Waiohua, the local mana whenua, alongside Auckland Council and Waahi Wairua designs. This collaboration aimed to reflect aspects of local cultural heritage within the play structures and overall layout.
What Visitors Often Say
Families note that the large blue climbing frame provides varied challenges and cosy spots for older children while ground-level panels engage younger ones. The playground quickly became popular with local kids after opening.
Parents highlight the accessible features and mix of equipment that keeps children engaged for longer visits, with shaded areas offering relief on sunny days.
Where to Learn More
Playgrounds.co.nz — Kauri Heart project page: detailed project description including equipment list and design collaborators.
Auckland Council parks and recreation: official information on Auckland parks and playgrounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Kauri Heart Park Playground?
On Kauri Heart Avenue in Takanini, South Auckland, within a new housing development.
When did the playground open?
May 2022.
What is the KOMPAN Butterfly?
A large blue climbing structure with rope and steel framing that offers unusual angles, hang-out spaces and accessible sensory features.
Is the tower accessible?
Yes, the PlatinumPlay tower includes accessible stairs and ground-level interactive panels.
Was iwi involved in the design?
Yes, Te Ākitai Waiohua contributed through collaboration with Auckland Council and Waahi Wairua designs.
What other equipment is available?
The park includes a Kompan Wehopper spinner and 3-metre swings with basket and Duo options.
Are there shaded areas?
Yes, shaded areas and picnic spots are provided.
Is entry free?
Yes, the playground is free to use.
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