Top 6 Hawke's Bay Playgrounds

With SO MANY amazing Hawke's Bay playgrounds to choose from, this may well be the most contentious list we've ever compiled. But we're prepared to make the tough calls and present you with our cream of the crop.

Boys and girls, introducing Hawke's Bay's Top 6 playgrounds to include on your must-do list of demands for your Hawke's Bay holiday. 

Anderson Park Playground, Napier

No expense spared on this masterpiece, which features every whiz-bang piece of play equipment you could ever hopeful. The expansive site also includes water-play, a neighbouring skate and scooter park, and easily connects to the impressive network of trails that navigate around the wider Anderson Park.


Frimley Playground, Hastings

The recent upgrade of Frimley Playground created a rainbow of sensory adventures for all. The vision was to provide an exciting and enticing community space with inclusive features for people with disability or vision impairment. The result is a truly stimulating environment that takes engagement to new levels. 


Marine Parade Playground, Napier

Occupying perhaps the best location of any playground in Hawke's Bay - nay, New Zealand! - the Marine Parade Playground (officially the May and Peter Harris Playground) is a sprawling site offering unmatched views of the Pacific Ocean. The playground is divided into age-appropriate areas, there's loads of shade, and it's located right next door to a junior bike track. Within walking distance of heaps of other activities as well, it's a guaranteed great day out for the kids.

Marine Parade Playground 

Russell Park, Central Hawke's Bay

Handily located just off SH2, and on the banks of the Tukituki River, Russell Park has a great playground and splash pad to cool off from CHB's hot summer days. Take a ball to kick round on the fields as well as a bike or scooter to use on the tracks and skate park. And if the heat becomes too much, the indoor pool complex provides the ultimate relief from the sun.

Russell Park


Wairoa Playground, Wairoa

This new destination playground has been an instant hit with locals and visitors alike. Modern equipment, plenty of challenge for all ages, and a sweet flying fox make the Wairoa Playground a must-visit for any family staying in the area or passing through to explore the rest of Northern Hawke's Bay.

Wairoa Playground 

Village Green, Havelock North

Reopened in 2017 following an extensive refurbishment, the Village Green playground is a hive of activity year-round. The always-popular water play takes centre stage, supported by a wide range of play equipment to suit all ages. The onsite skatepark, neighbouring Village Pools, and proximity to Havelock North's bevvy of cafes ensure the Village Green is a must-visit family friendly hot-spot this summer.

Opening day for the Village Green 

Complete lists of reserves and playgrounds are available at the following council links:

Central Hawke's Bay

Hastings & Havelock North

Napier