Last updated July 2026
Te Waituarua Reserve Playground at 170 Waituarua Drive in the Waiata Shores development, Takanini, is a $2 million destination playground that opened in June 2024. Fully funded by Fletcher Living, the developer of Waiata Shores, it draws on the legend of Kaiwhare, the kaitiaki taniwha of the Manukau Harbour traditionally depicted as a stingray. The design incorporates flowing and spinning equipment to represent harbour waves and turbulence, with contoured fields and plantings outlining the stingray form. A custom play tower, swings, accessible carousels and climbing structures sit alongside a 120-metre BMX pump track.
Practical Information
| Address | 170 Waituarua Drive, Takanini, Auckland 2112 — within Waiata Shores |
| Opened | June 2024 (blessed 6 June, officially opened 8 June) |
| Cost to build | $2 million — fully funded by Fletcher Living |
| Cultural inspiration | Kaiwhare — kaitiaki (guardian) taniwha of the Manukau Harbour, depicted as a stingray, in collaboration with Te Ākitai Waiohua iwi |
| Design references | Flowing and spinning equipment symbolises waves and turbulence of the Manukau Harbour; contoured fields and plantings outline the stingray shape |
| Custom play tower | Yes — bespoke design for the site |
| Other equipment | Swings, accessible carousels, climbing structures |
| BMX pump track | 120 metres — designed by pro-BMX rider Byron Scott |
| Pump track use | Suitable for biking, scootering, skateboarding, roller skates — beginners through to experienced riders |
| Accessibility | Accessible carousels and inclusive layout |
| Cost to visit | Free |
About the Playground
Te Waituarua Reserve Playground sits within the Waiata Shores residential development in Takanini, South Auckland. The playground opened in June 2024 after a blessing by local iwi on 6 June and official opening on 8 June. Fletcher Living fully funded the $2 million project as part of the new community.
The design draws directly from the legend of Kaiwhare, the guardian taniwha of the Manukau Harbour. In collaboration with Clynt White of Wahi Wairua and Te Ākitai Waiohua iwi, the playground translates the story into play elements. Flowing and spinning equipment evokes the harbour’s waves and turbulence, while contoured fields and plantings trace the stingray shape visible when walking the perimeter.
A custom-built play tower forms the centrepiece, surrounded by swings, accessible carousels and climbing structures. Extensive planting, open spaces, seating and picnic tables encourage families to linger. The inclusive layout supports children of varying abilities.
BMX Pump Track
The 120-metre BMX pump track stands out as a dedicated feature designed by professional BMX rider Byron Scott. The track accommodates bikes, scooters, skateboards and roller skates. It is built for safe use from beginners learning the basics through to experienced riders seeking a challenge.
Accessibility
Accessible carousels and an inclusive overall layout ensure children of all abilities can enjoy the space. The design supports a range of mobility needs alongside the cultural and play elements.
Where to Learn More
Fletcher Building: Official announcement detailing the Kaiwhare inspiration, iwi collaboration, opening dates and $2 million funding.
NZ Herald: Coverage of the playground opening with background on the taniwha legend and design process.
Playgrounds.co.nz: Project details on the design collaboration with iwi and play features.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Te Waituarua Reserve Playground?
170 Waituarua Drive, Takanini, Auckland 2112, within the Waiata Shores development in South Auckland.
When did it open?
June 2024. It was blessed by local iwi on 6 June and officially opened on 8 June.
What inspired the design?
The legend of Kaiwhare, the kaitiaki taniwha of the Manukau Harbour depicted as a stingray. Flowing equipment symbolises harbour waves; contoured fields and plantings outline the stingray shape. The design involved collaboration with Te Ākitai Waiohua iwi.
How much did the playground cost to build?
$2 million, fully funded by Fletcher Living, the developer of Waiata Shores.
How long is the BMX pump track?
120 metres, designed by professional BMX rider Byron Scott.
Who can use the pump track?
Bikes, scooters, skateboards and roller skates. It is designed to be safe and inclusive for beginners through to experienced riders.
Is the playground accessible?
Yes. It includes accessible carousels and an inclusive layout supporting children of all abilities.
Is there a cost to visit?
No, entry is free.
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