PLAYGROUNDS: Part II

A few years ago, we shared a blog featuring some of our favourite fun and engaging playgrounds around the region. Since then, Nelson–Tasman has continued to grow and evolve, and we felt it was the perfect time to update the list and include some new favourites!

We are always encouraging whānau to get out and enjoy simple, memorable adventures with your children. If you visit any of these playgrounds after reading our blog, we’d love to hear from you — drop us a line and tell us what you thought or share a highlight from your visit.

👉 Missed Playgrounds Part I?

You can find it here for a wee refresher: Playgrounds! – Nurture@Home

Have fun exploring!

🌿 1. Rosales Park

Richmond’s newest playground may be small, but it packs in plenty of fun. It includes:

A set of swings (including a bucket swing)
A climbing frame and slide
Wooden structures for balancing, exploring, and imaginative play

There are covered picnic tables nearby and open spaces perfect for bike riding. While the playground isn’t fenced, it is set well back from the road in a quiet suburban street, making it feel calm and family-friendly.
Have you been to check it out yet?

🌄 2. Tirohanga Whānui Park

Tucked right at the top of Bayview Road in Atawhai, Tirohanga Whānui Park is a must-visit. This stunning new playground offers spectacular views across the bay and the Boulder Bank, making it a favourite for both children and adults.
The playground includes:

Slides, swings, monkey bars, and climbing equipment
Picnic spots with incredible outlooks
Equipment suitable for preschoolers and older siblings

This is a fantastic mixed-age playground and well worth the visit.

🎉 3. Action Zone Playground

Located at the Nelson Entertainment Centre, Action Zone is a newly refurbished indoor playground — and we absolutely LOVE it here!
Perfect for wet days or when you need to burn off some serious energy, this colourful and interactive space includes:

Slides and trampolines
Bike paths and inflatables
Interactive digital games
Foam pits, climbing zones, crawl spaces, and more

It’s a magical, adventurous environment that kids adore — and let’s be honest, adults often have just as much fun! Bonus points for the onsite café serving delicious food and drinks.

Nelson Entertainment Centre – Action Centre (click here for website/entry fee information etc)

🌳 4. Faulkners Bush Playground

This newly refurbished and spacious playground is well worth the trip to Wakefield. There is so much on offer, including:

Flying foxes
Spinners
Climbing structures galore

The playground is accessible and inclusive, with thoughtful features for children of all abilities. There are also lovely areas to relax, including hammocks and picnic spots.

A local tip:

The gorgeous Wakey Bakey bakery is directly across the road and always buzzing — perfect for grabbing a pie or treat after playtime. Toilets are a short walk from the playground, and parking can be limited during peak times, so we recommend visiting outside busy periods.

🌸 5. Decks Reserve Playground

Decks Reserve has had a glow-up in recent years and is well worth a visit. The vibrant playground offers:

Plenty of space for swinging, climbing, and exploring
Shaded picnic tables
Large grassed areas for free play

While you’re there, be sure to wander across the field to the nearby Kiyosato Japanese Garden. With its peaceful pathways and waterways, it’s a beautiful place for a calm stroll and a lovely contrast to energetic playground play.

🌱 Why playground play matters

Taking preschoolers to the playground supports their development in powerful, everyday ways. Playground play helps children:

Build physical strength, balance, and coordination
Develop confidence and independence
Learn social skills like sharing, turn-taking, and cooperation
Explore creativity, imagination, and problem-solving
Experience safe risk-taking in a supportive environment
Support emotional wellbeing through outdoor movement and play

Outdoor play gives children the freedom to explore, connect, and learn in ways that simply can’t be replicated indoors.