Henderson Ward Parks and Open Space Information

Facilities at this Park

Located on the northern tip of the Te Atatu Peninsula, Chapman Strand offers the perfect spot for a family picnic with views across the Henderson Creek to West Harbour.

Sit in the sun and watch as boats and kayaks launch from the safe haven of the boat ramp and bob through the water or join them for a cool dip in the harbour.

How to get there:

Chapman Road, via Te Atatu Road, Te Atatu Peninsula.
 

Facilities at this Park

As you wander around the northern end of the Te Atatu Peninsula along the coastal walkway, you will walk past wetlands, mangroves and sandy beaches. Take in the scenic vistas over the Waitemata and view the iconic Auckland Harbour Bridge with Devonport and Mt Victoria hiding in the background. Spinnaker Strand offers panoramic views to the keen stroller wanting to capture Auckland City from another angle. 

Slightly more secluded is Kelvin Strand. Walk along the flax-lined tracks that look out over the West Harbour Marina or relax at the sandy beach which offers a perfectly sheltered spot for swimming and picnicking.

How to get there:

Kelvin Strand: Kelvin Crescent via Gill Ave and Beach Road, Te Atatu Peninsula.
Spinnaker Strand: Beach Road, Te Atatu Peninsula.

Facilities at this Park

Located on the sheltered western side of Te Atatu Peninsula, Taipari Strand offers a range of activities for all ages. The gentle network of walkways meandering through the park provide for the avid stroller, jogger or dog walker.

The vast grass areas offer great picnicking spots and are large enough for a game of sport or a large family gathering. A themed playground caters for the kids. Taipari Strand also has a boat ramp which allows you to safely launch into Henderson Creek for a range of water sports including water skiing, rowing, kayaking or sailing.

How to get there:

Taikata Road, Te Atatu Peninsula.

Facilities at this Park

Located in the heart of the Te Atatu Peninsula town centre and within walking distance of many of the Peninsula's residents, Jack Pringle Village Green offers facilities for the entire community.

It includes an extensive beach themed playground for the children, gentle pathways and gardens, all sheltered by mature trees. The works of art at each of the park entrances complete the area and add character to a community area that will be used for generations to come.

How to get there:

Corner of Te Atatu and Harbourview Roads, Te Atatu Peninsula. Parking off Pringle Road.

Facilities at this Park

Located on Te Atatu Peninsula, Harbourview - Orangihina offers something truly special. Wander along the all weather path to the south, or meander along the gravel track to the north. Breathe in the salty sea air as you look out over the Waitemata Harbour. Take in the uninterrupted panoramic views of Auckland City, the Harbour Bridge and Rangitoto from the resting places.

Harbourview - Orangihina is home to a number of historic sites, from archaeological features such as middens from early Maori occupation to World War II gun emplacements. Specially created wetlands on the lower terrace at Harbourview offer habitat to an abundant wildlife which include the world travelling Godwit, the rare and shy Fernbird and the Kokopu, a stream fish native to New Zealand.

How to get there:

Te Atatu Road via Gloria Road roundabout or Harbourview Drive via Te Atatu Road roundabout, Te Atatu Peninsula. 

Facilities at this Park

As Waitakere's premier sporting venue, Waitakere City Stadium Precinct offers fun for all. Facilities include the Douglas Track and Field that regularly hosts regional, national and international sporting events.

For the less sporting inclined, the precinct also offers an exciting playground for the children and walking tracks alongside the Henderson Creek. These scenic walkways take you past beautiful stream plantings alongside the Henderson Creek to the Chris Timms Memorial Jetty, offering a place to picnic and launch your kayak.

How to get there:

Central Park Drive, Henderson.

Facilities at this Park

A recreational park which lends relief to this bustling commercial area of Henderson. Te Pai Park leaves you spoilt for choice. The state of the art new playground includes interactive swings and rope climbing for the more adventurous children.

The skate park caters for young and old skaters and bikers. Play tennis during the summer on the public courts or shoot some hoops on the public netball courts. Undulating grass areas sheltered by mature trees provide a perfect picnic spot for a family day out. Keep a look out for the oval garden alongside Lincoln Road as it changes to coincide with the season or major events.

How to get there:

Te Pai Place via Lincoln Road or Central Park Drive, Henderson. 

Facilities at this Park

A recreational park which lends relief to this bustling commercial area of Henderson. Te Pai Park leaves you spoilt for choice. The state of the art new playground includes interactive swings and rope climbing for the more adventurous children.

Named for the great number of Tui's that fed on the Kowhai nectar of the stream banks original vegetation, Tui Glen is a rolling landscape of open space, large trees and history.  Registered as the first camping ground in the country in 1925, it contains 10 historic buildings, including Manuka Shade, an excellent example of a simple colonial cottage.

Replacing the original jetty of the camp ground is the Tui Glen Heritage Jetty which offers public access to the Henderson Creek.

How to get there:

Claude Brooks Drive via Edmonton Road, Henderson.

Facilities at this Park

Located within the centre of Henderson's recreational area, Cranwell Park is neighboured by the West Wave Aquatic Centre and Gym, a bowling and croquet club. Originally part of Thomas Henderson's farm it was bought in 1900 by Ben Cranwell and developed into an orchard.

Today one can picnic and play under historic pear trees at the point where the Oratia and Opanuku streams meet and converge to form Henderson Creek. Enjoy a stroll around the perimeter of the park or embark on the Henderson Creek walkway. Music fans can pay tribute to Elvis at the memorial in the park.

How to get there:

West Wave Recreational Centre, intersection of Alderman and Sel Peacock Drive, Henderson.

Facilities at this Park

With its open space, mature trees, flowing stream and easy access, Falls Park is a popular spot located within the Henderson town centre. The artistic McLeod's Crossing connects this tranquil park to the Henderson Creek Walkway.

Relax at the various picnic sites alongside the Oratia stream and watch it flow over and around rocky outcrops. The traditional rotunda is a beautiful spot to relax and is regularly used as a wedding venue during the summer months.

How to get there:

Adjacent to Falls Hotel, Alderman Drive, Henderson.

Facilities at this Park

Surprise! Just minutes from the Henderson town centre is a quiet refuge - the Opanuku walkway. The Opanuku Walkway follows its namesake, a babbling stream which weaves through lush native bush. A very sheltered area and a rejuvenating place for walkers or joggers, even on cool or windy days.

A playground and picnic area is located at Opanuku Reserve while the neighbouring Henderson Park boasts large open spaces perfect for a game of sport. Follow the walkway south to Border Road to an additional picnic area and information panels revealing more about the wildlife along the way. Opanuku highlights include the kowhai in flower (around October) and the calls and company of fantail, tui and kingfishers.

How to get there:

Henderson Park: Wilsher Crescent, Mt Lebanon Lane
Opanuku Reserve: Henderson Valley Road.
Opanuku Walkway: Wilsher Cresent, Palomino Drive, Border Road, Chardon Place, Vintage Drive, Claret Place, Fitzwater Place or Khaleel Place.

Facilities at this Park

Located in Henderson Heights, Lake Panorama is a peaceful lake and reserve nestled in a valley amongst the suburbs. Flowering lilies and vibrant bird life call Lake Panorama home.

Take a stroll along the boardwalk and clear your mind after a busy day. For the younger members of the family Lake Panorama also offers a fun place to play close to home. Pop across the road with the kids to the playground at Xena Park.

How to get there:

Lake Panorama Drive via Sturges Road, Henderson.

Facilities at this Park

The Te Atatu Peninsula Walkway offers an opportunity for residents to discover the boundary of the peninsula. Walk, run or cycle your way around the track following Henderson Creek as it flows into the Waitemata Harbour offering picturesque views of the city beyond.

Facilities at this Park

Running from Border Rd through the heart of Henderson to the edge of the North Western Motorway the Henderson walkway offers a sealed track for walkers, runners and cyclists alike that winds through numerous parks and meanders alongside the Opanuku Stream and Henderson Creek.