Tucked away in the bush, only accessible via walkways this wee playground is a bush gem. Walk in from Solander Place or the walkway off Discovery Drive by Whitby Collegiate School, you might even spot some eels in the stream but Whitby Collegiate. Part of the playground is in the old site, which was a beautiful suntrap. The new part has been tucked away further in the bush, giving shade in summer, but making it a bit damp and chilly in winter. Sadly our boys moved this from five stars to three after the 'upgrade' a couple of years ago.
Whitby Walkway Playground
Solander Place, Whitby, Porirua 5024
Why these ages?
Bush-set natural playground on the Whitby Walkway with timber fort and eagles-nest basket swing under trees, pedestrian-only access so no road risk. A stream with eels runs nearby which is a mild water risk if a toddler wanders. Reviewer says toddlers manage but this is best for primary-aged imaginative climbers rather than a run-around toddler space.
Access notes
The play area sits on a bark surface within a natural bush setting, a hard barrier for wheelchair users. A review notes the playground is only accessible via walkways tucked into the bush, with no direct road access. On street parking is nearby but does not resolve this.
What's here
Whitby Walkway Playground at Solander Place is a natural play style space built around a timber fort and an eagles nest claw basket swing, set along the walking corridor that threads through the Whitby suburb on Porirua Harbour. It suits primary age children looking for climbing and imaginative play rather than a standard swing and slide set.
Equipment
Practical Info
Good to know
HistoryWhitby suburb was master-planned from the 1960s on 3,180 acres of farmland purchased by a consortium, with street and neighbourhood names referencing Pacific explorer James Cook. The development earned the 1978 New Zealand Institution of Engineers Environmental Award. The first sections were auctioned in 1970.
Source: en.wikipedia.orgHistoryOpened within the last 5 years (as of the McNoe 2026 survey).
Source: services1.arcgis.comOn siteEquipment includes Timber fort, natural play, eagles nest claw basket swing, other play equipment (not listed).
Source: services1.arcgis.comOn siteJunior-suitable items include basket swing, slide (suitable for young child with assistance).
Source: services1.arcgis.comAmenitiesWhitby Walkway playground at Solander Place forms part of the Whitby Walkway network, which links Postgate Park (terminus of the walkway) to Endeavour Park via pedestrian paths threading through the suburb's nautically named streets.
Source: poriruacity.govt.nzAmenitiesPlayground surface: bark.
Source: services1.arcgis.comAmenitiesSite amenities include picnic tables.
Source: services1.arcgis.comAmenitiesSite size category: 2 Medium.
Source: services1.arcgis.comAmenitiesAsset type: playground.
Source: maps.poriruacity.govt.nzHandy to knowShade at midday in summer: Some established tree shade for play equipment, picnic table & spectators.
Source: services1.arcgis.com
The week ahead
Daytime high in °C · % = chance of rain · data from yr.no
Photos (3)
Spot a problem?
Spotted broken gear, a hazard, or something that needs a fix? Let Porirua City know. They look after this park.