Last updated July 2026
Madills Farm Reserve at 6 Baddeley Avenue, Kohimarama offers a fully fenced playground alongside extensive sports fields and walking paths in East Auckland. The playground features a giant climbing net, slides, swings, in-ground trampolines and a small bike track, suitable for toddlers through to intermediate-age children. The 11-hectare reserve serves as home ground for Eastern Suburbs AFC and includes the sealed Madills Path loop around the fields. Toilets, picnic tables, drinking fountains and parking support family visits and sports use. The reserve also hosts the Kohimarama Yacht Club.
Practical Information
| Address | 6 Baddeley Avenue, Kohimarama, Auckland |
| Playground | Fully fenced; suitable for toddlers to intermediate years |
| Key play features | Giant climbing net, slides, swings, in-ground trampolines, basket swing, see-saw, small bike track |
| Reserve size | 11 hectares |
| Sports facilities | Home to Eastern Suburbs AFC; multiple sports fields |
| Walking | Madills Path sealed loop around the fields |
| Facilities | Toilets, car parking, picnic tables, drinking fountains, seating |
| Other users | Kohimarama Yacht Club |
| Cost | Free |
About the Playground
The playground occupies a corner of the reserve and stands out for its full fencing, allowing children to play safely while parents supervise from nearby picnic areas. Equipment includes a prominent giant climbing net, multiple slides, swings, in-ground trampolines and a basket swing, catering to a wide age range from toddlers to intermediate students. A small bike or scooter track adds another activity option within the fenced area.
Large trees provide natural shade around the play space. The playground sits adjacent to open grass and sports fields, giving families room to combine play with ball games or picnics on the surrounding lawns.
The Wider Reserve and Sports Use
Madills Farm Reserve functions primarily as a sports ground. It serves as the home venue for Eastern Suburbs AFC, with fields used for football matches and training. Other codes also use the grounds throughout the year. The reserve layout separates informal recreation areas from the organised sports fields.
The site has a long history as reserve land, with the council acquiring the final portion in 1959 after earlier use as landfill. It was formally established as a reserve in 1947.
Walking and Paths
The Madills Path provides a flat, sealed loop around the sports fields. It offers an easy walking or jogging route for locals and visitors after playground time or between sports activities. The path network connects different parts of the reserve and supports casual recreation.
What Visitors Often Say
Families appreciate the fully fenced playground that lets children play freely while parents relax nearby. Reviewers note the variety of equipment including the large climbing net and trampolines, plus the convenience of nearby toilets and parking.
Locals value the reserve for regular walks on the Madills Path and as a reliable sports venue. Many mention the open space and shade from mature trees as highlights for both play and exercise.
Where to Learn More
Auckland Council — Madills Farm Recreation Reserve: official page with facility details, location map and contact information.
Wikipedia — Madills Farm Reserve: overview of history, size, sports tenants and cultural background.
Friends of Madills Farm: community group site with local history and reserve information.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Madills Farm Reserve located?
6 Baddeley Avenue, Kohimarama in East Auckland, near St Heliers.
Is the playground fully fenced?
Yes, the playground area is fully fenced for child safety.
What play equipment is available?
A giant climbing net, slides, swings, in-ground trampolines, basket swing, see-saw and small bike track.
What sports are played at the reserve?
It is the home ground of Eastern Suburbs AFC and hosts other sports codes on multiple fields.
Is there a walking path?
Yes, the sealed Madills Path loops around the sports fields.
Are toilets and other facilities available?
Yes, public toilets, picnic tables, drinking fountains and car parking are provided.
Is the reserve free to use?
Yes, entry and use of the playground and reserve are free.
Does the Kohimarama Yacht Club use the reserve?
Yes, the club is based at the reserve.
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