Last updated May 2026
Takapuna Beach Reserve (Gould Reserve) has two playgrounds side by side — a large main playground for older kids with a multi-level tower, covered slides, large climbing net, trampolines, two-bay swing set, hamster wheel and seesaw; and an inclusive playground for younger children and visitors with accessibility needs, with a rocking truck, self-propelled swing, communication board, interactive talking tubes, sensory flowers and a low climbing mound with a wide slide. Changing Places NZ has installed a fully accessible bathroom on site, alongside picnic tables, BBQs, an outdoor shower and a drinking fountain.
Practical Information
| Reserve | Takapuna Beach Reserve / Gould Reserve — between The Strand and Takapuna Beach |
| Two playgrounds | Main playground for older kids + inclusive playground for younger children and those with accessibility needs |
| Main playground | Multi-level tower, high covered slides, large climbing net, trampolines, two-bay swing set, hamster wheel, seesaw, monkey bars, A-frame rope climbing, netting tunnel |
| Inclusive playground | Large rocking truck, self-propelled swing, seesaw, communication board, interactive talking tubes, sensory flowers, low climbing mound with wide slide |
| Accessibility bathroom | Fully accessible Changing Places NZ bathroom on site |
| Parking | Including mobility parking |
| Facilities | Toilets and changing rooms, BBQ, outdoor shower, drinking fountain, picnic tables |
| Cost | Free |
About the Playgrounds
Takapuna Beach Reserve runs two playgrounds because they serve different needs that don’t combine well in a single layout. The main playground sits between The Strand and the beach — built around a multi-level tower with high covered slides, with a large climbing net, ladders, a netting tunnel, trampolines, a two-bay swing set, a hamster wheel, a seesaw, monkey bars and an A-frame rope-climbing section. It’s a destination-scale playground that supports active play for older primary-aged children through to early teens.
The second, inclusive playground sits between the accessible toilet block and the beach. It’s been designed specifically for younger children and visitors with accessibility needs: a large rocking truck (suitable for users with mobility limitations), a self-propelled swing, a seesaw, a communication board for non-verbal visitors, interactive talking tubes, sensory flowers, and a low climbing mound with a wide slide that’s wheelchair-transferable. The two playgrounds being side-by-side means siblings of different ages or abilities can use them together.
Accessibility
The reserve’s accessibility provision is unusually comprehensive — Changing Places NZ has installed a fully accessible bathroom on site (Changing Places facilities go beyond standard “accessible toilets” with adult-sized changing tables, ceiling hoists and adequate space for carers). Mobility parking is provided. Together with the inclusive playground, this makes Takapuna one of the few Auckland beach reserves that supports a full visit for families with accessibility needs.
Where to Learn More
Auckland Council — Takapuna Beach Reserve — the official council park page with current facility list and condition information.
Accessible Playgrounds NZ — Takapuna Beach Reserve — independent accessibility assessment with detail on the inclusive playground equipment and Changing Places bathroom.
OurAuckland — Accessible play comes to Takapuna — Auckland Council news coverage of the inclusive playground opening and its design intent.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many playgrounds are at Takapuna Beach Reserve?
Two — a main playground for older kids, and an inclusive playground for younger children and those with accessibility needs.
What’s in the inclusive playground?
A large rocking truck, self-propelled swing, seesaw, communication board, interactive talking tubes, sensory flowers, and a low climbing mound with a wide slide.
Is there a fully accessible bathroom?
Yes — Changing Places NZ has installed a fully accessible bathroom on site, with adult-sized changing tables and ceiling hoist.
Is there mobility parking?
Yes — mobility parking is provided.
Are there BBQs and showers?
Yes — a BBQ, outdoor shower, drinking fountain, picnic tables, and toilets/changing rooms.
Is the playground close to the beach?
Yes — the reserve sits directly between The Strand and Takapuna Beach.
For more Auckland playgrounds see the Playgrounds in Auckland guide.
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