Kennedy Park Playground

This place deserves way more attention

Kennedy Park Playground sits a short drive north of Castor Bay Beach Playground, and honestly — it's really good and way too easy to overlook. Most people on that stretch of coast head straight for Castor Bay and don't look twice at what's just up the road. Their loss.

We didn't know what to expect when we pulled in, but it didn't take long to see this is nicer than its reputation suggests. If you're driving the East Coast Bays, put it on the list even when you're only planning a quick beach stop nearby.

Easy parking

From the moment you arrive, parking is sorted — there's a proper car park on site, which cuts out half the stress of a family day out before you've even got the kids out of the car. The park splits into two areas: a sandpit toddler zone under big shade sails, and a larger open space for older kids with a massive rope net climber in the middle. They're separate enough that different ages can do their own thing, but close enough that you can watch both.

For toddler parents — this is the one

If you've got little ones, the toddler area is the highlight. The sandpit is deep and wide — the kind where a sand-obsessed toddler can stay busy for ages. There's a blue slide, swings, and a few sensory play bits, all the right size for small kids and under shade sails that actually keep the sun off. The whole spot feels shaded, calm, and comfortable enough that you actually want to stay.

The whole perimeter — and the path in — is wooden decking. If you've ever fought a pram through wood chips or uneven bark with a toddler on your hip, you'll get why this matters. Here you just walk in. No wrestling, no tipping, no drama. Small detail, big difference.

The main area — and the view

The older kids' area is bigger than you'd expect for the spot. The main draw is a giant rope net climber — the kind that climbs up to a tall centre and spreads out in every direction. Our kids went straight for it and stayed there ages. Around it there's a circular trampoline ring and a couple of spinners. FYI, that red spinner thing is a blast — a little dizzying, but still super fun.

Honestly, for how much space there is, you'd hope for a bit more to play on — a few more pieces wouldn't hurt. But what's there is good, and the rope net is one of the better ones we've seen on the North Shore.

Then there's the view. Kennedy Park sits up on the hill, and from the older kids' area especially you look down over the ocean — you'll probably stop and stare. Most beach playgrounds put you at water level; this one looks down on it. On a clear day it's stunning. Worth the trip for the view alone, before you even think about the equipment.

Parking, toilets, and room to spread out

Toilets, water, parking, and that big field next door — it's the kind of place you can stay for hours, not just a quick play-and-go.

The toilets were clean on our visit, and there are water fountains when you need them. The grass beside the playground is wide open — good for a picnic rug, kicking a ball, or a lazy afternoon while the kids swap between the equipment and running around.

Worth knowing

• On-site parking — arrival is usually easy.
• Toddler sandpit and older kids' rope net area are separate, so different ages can do their own thing while you still watch both.
• Wooden decking around the toddler area — pram-friendly all the way.
• Usually quiet and easy to keep an eye on the kids.
• Pairing beaches? Castor Bay Beach is only a minute south — but don't skip Kennedy Park on the way.

Overall

Got a toddler and like a great view? Kennedy Park should be near the top of your list. Easy parking, decent toilets, water fountains, a big grassy field, and views you don't get at most playgrounds — don't sleep on this one.

The playground is at Beach Road, Castor Bay, Auckland 0620. If it's hard to find, head south along Beach Road — you'll see a park entrance on your left just past 157 Beach Road.