Last updated May 2026
Kauri Heart Park in Takanini opened in May 2022 as a destination playground for the surrounding new housing development. The centrepiece is the KOMPAN Butterfly — a large blue climbing rope-and-steel frame with unusual angles, hang-out spaces and accessible sensory features. A custom PlatinumPlay tower sits alongside, with accessible stairs, a 2-metre tube slide and ground-level interactive panels. Design was developed with input from Auckland Council and the Te Ākitai Waiohua iwi, reflecting local cultural heritage.
Practical Information
| Location | Kauri Heart Park, Takanini, South Auckland (within a new housing development) |
| Opened | May 2022 |
| Centrepiece | KOMPAN Butterfly — large blue climbing rope-and-steel frame with unusual angles, hang-out spaces and sensory features |
| Custom tower | PlatinumPlay tower — accessible stairs, 2 m tube slide, ground-level interactive panels |
| Accessibility | Accessible stairs on tower; interactive panels at ground level; well-maintained paths for prams and wheelchairs |
| Cultural input | Designed with Auckland Council and Te Ākitai Waiohua iwi (local mana whenua) |
| Other facilities | Shaded areas, picnic spots |
| Cost | Free |
About the Playground
Kauri Heart Park is a destination playground in a new Takanini housing development, opened in May 2022. The headline piece is the KOMPAN Butterfly — a striking blue climbing structure that combines rope and steel framing into a sculptural form with unusual climbing angles, integrated hang-out spaces, and accessible sensory features. The KOMPAN Butterfly is part of the manufacturer’s premium product line — uncommon in Auckland but increasingly used at destination playgrounds.
Alongside the Butterfly sits a custom PlatinumPlay tower built specifically for this site. The tower features accessible stairs (rather than ladders only), a 2-metre tube slide and interactive panels at ground level — the panels mean younger children and visitors with mobility limitations can engage with the structure without needing to climb. Accessibility is treated as a core part of the playground rather than an add-on.
Cultural Design Input
The playground design was developed with input from Auckland Council and the Te Ākitai Waiohua iwi — the local mana whenua. Local cultural heritage is reflected in the design choices, though the specifics of the iwi involvement and design references are best understood at the playground itself.
Where to Learn More
Playground People — Kauri Heart project page — playground designer’s project page with detail on the KOMPAN Butterfly, custom PlatinumPlay tower and design intent.
Auckland for Kids — Kauri Heart Park Playground — family-focused review with photos and visit notes covering both the Butterfly and the tower.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Kauri Heart Park?
In Takanini, South Auckland — within a new housing development.
When did the playground open?
May 2022.
What’s the KOMPAN Butterfly?
A large blue climbing structure with unusual angles, hang-out spaces and accessible sensory features — part of KOMPAN’s premium product line.
Is the tower accessible?
Yes — the PlatinumPlay tower has accessible stairs (rather than ladders only) and ground-level interactive panels for visitors who can’t climb.
Was the design developed with iwi input?
Yes — with Te Ākitai Waiohua (the local mana whenua), through Auckland Council.
Are there shaded areas?
Yes — shaded areas and picnic spots are provided.
For more South Auckland playgrounds see the Playgrounds in Auckland guide.
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