Te aro mahana

Te Aro Mahana is the fully fenced waterfront playspace at Frank Kitts Park in Wellington Central, reopened in February 2024 after a major redesign. It combines distinctive cultural design with a strong accessible-equipment set, drawing families from across the city as a destination playground on the waterfront promenade.

Equipment

The standout piece is a refurbished lighthouse novelty slide retaining its original cupola dome, alongside a timber waka play element named Whetuu Marama (Bright Star), rope climbers with accessible access, a timber box play element, and swings with both infant and basket seats. An accessible carousel sits under a shade sail with an adjacent picnic table. The surface is artificial grass.

Access and Inclusion

The accessible carousel and rope climber are designed to accommodate children with mobility needs. The playground is fully fenced and sits on level ground with direct access from the waterfront promenade, making it straightforward to navigate with a buggy. Public toilets and a drinking fountain are on site.

History and Cultural

Frank Kitts Park was formed on reclaimed land in 1976 and renamed in 1979 in memory of Sir Frank Kitts, former Mayor of Wellington. Mana whenua, Taranaki Whanui ki te Upoko o te Ika, gifted the playspace the name Te Aro Mahana, meaning warm front, recognising the site's connection to Te Aro Pa and the enduring relationship of Taranaki iwi to their ancestral land here.

Practical Info

On-street parking is available on Jervois Quay. Public toilets and a drinking fountain are on site. Wellington City Council applies a smokefree policy to the playground.