13 December, 2018

Parks and Playgrounds

Windsor Reserve 

Located on Victoria Road, next to Devonport Beach, this playground is perfect for the whole family. It’s playground, big grassy field and convenience to the small sandy beach make it an all rounder. Grab some fish and chips from across the road and catch the last of the sun while you take in the ocean air.

 

Devonport Domain 

This is a playground with a billion dollar view, overlooking Torpedo Bay and back towards Auckland City. The playground shares it’s grounds with the North Shore Cricket club, so there is plenty of grass to kick a ball or throw a frisbee. It’s also a mere two minute walk from North Head.

 

Cheltenham Beach Playground

Need we say more? This modest playground is steps away from one of Devonport’s best beaches, complete with great views of Rangitoto Island. No doubt you’ll see paddle boarders and windsurfers whizzing past. Too hot? This playground is a one minute walk from Cheltenham Milk Bar, which serves delicious gelato and milkshakes.

 

Belmain Reserve

Located about half way down Cheltenham Beach, this reserve is an institution among locals as THE picnic/fish and chips spot. Bema Fish and Chips are located a couple of minutes away on Vauxhall Rd. Bonus: You’re allowed to drink alcohol on Cheltenham Beach from 7am until 10pm in the summer months (October until April).

 

Narrowneck Beach Playground 

Another playground located on one of our beautiful beaches, Narrowneck is home to a small but entertaining playground with a beautiful view. It’s also right next door to the beach cafe which sells all the kiwi necessities including pies, hot chips and ice creams.

 

Woodall Park

Not enough room for the kids to run around at the Narrowneck Playground? Pop across the road to Woodall park, a massive stretch of grassy field, perfect for a family game of cricket or soccer. There is also a volleyball net set up in the corner of the park.

 

Cambria Reserve

This little gem is tucked away at the back of the Devonport Museum, down a one way street. It’s winding concrete paths and landscape gardens make it the perfect spot for a little adventure. The reserve sits in the remains of Mount Cambria Volcano, which was a quarry for scoria rock between 1883 and 1985.

 

Allenby Reserve Playground 

Located next to the Waitemata golf club, this playground is usually quieter and less crowded than a lot of the others. You can walk from here to Cheltenham beach in about five minutes.

 

Wicklow Reserve

Also slightly more off the beaten track, this reserve hosts a pirate ship shaped playground the kids are bound to enjoy exploring. The reserve also has lovely benches and a picnic table, a great spot to take a packed lunch. Wicklow reserve is a five to ten minute stroll from Narrowneck beach.

 

Devonport Skate Park

Whether you have a skate board in tow or not, this is an iconic part of Devonport to check out. Located opposite the Waitemata Golf Course, and a five minute walk from Narrowneck, the skate park also has a lovely little walk around the outskirts over looking the mangroves.

 

Melrose Reserve

This charming reserve is tucked away in a quiet part of the village and is nestled amongst charming villas. There are plenty of trees that provide a nice shady spot to spend the afternoon. Here, you will be located in Devonport’s sister suburb Stanley Point.

 

Rainy Day Options

Weather not so flash? Don’t panic, there are still plenty of indoor options to keep the kids entertained. Check out the local museums; Both the Devonport and the Navy Museum have plenty of interactive toys and games to be enjoyed. Alternatively, check out what’s on at The Victoria Theatre; built in 1912 this is New Zealand’s oldest operating purpose built cinema.