7 of the best: Auckland playgrounds

With more sunny months ahead, we take a look at some of the top spots to stop and play for an hour . . . or two.

1. Takapuna Beach Playground
Gould Reserve, The Strand

What’s cool: Intertwining pipe slides feed off an impressive red and gold tower, and a wheelchair-accessible merry-go-round ensures no one is left out.

2. Barry Curtis Park
201 Chapel Road, Flat Bush

What’s cool: Kids will love challenging themselves on the giant red rope tepee – and older ones will be thrilled with one of the largest skate parks in the country.

3. Rocket Park
751 New North Road, Mt Albert

What’s cool: The rocket, of course! It’s an icon in the area, with children always eager to climb its four levels.

4. Tūī Glen Reserve
2 Claude Brookes Drive, Henderson

What’s cool: Pyramid towers with pipe slides, a basket swing, an eagle’s nest, dual flying foxes (race a friend!) and a tree hut make this one of the best play destinations in the west.

5. Allenby Park
66 Allenby Road, Papatoetoe

What’s cool: An upgrade this year included a climbing tower and a new sand and water play area, making this one of the hottest playgrounds of the south this summer.

6. Snakes and Ladders
42 Bramley Drive, Farm Cove

What’s cool: A snakes and ladders game made from pipe slides, stairs, and stepping posts – what’s not to love!

7. Daldy Street Park
Wynyard Quarter, CBD

What’s cool: A little green oasis designed to mirror the tank farm around it, this playground’s 7.5m slide will keep kids running back up the stairs for another go.