Stadium Reserve upgrade
26 June 2023 - Summer 2025/26
- Old Papatoetoe
- Complete
This green space in Old Papatoetoe has been upgraded to cater for a growing and diverse community. Construction is now complete.
It's now time to visit and enjoy this fun and relaxing public space.
Prior to the upgrade, the Stadium Reserve provided limited opportunities for recreation, was poorly configured and had low visitor numbers. The revitalisation aims to create a safe, attractive residential area and civic space that meets the needs of a growing population.
“Auckland is growing, and Papatoetoe is no different, with people recognising its advantages...”
Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board chair
Apulu Reece Autagavaia
The upgrade to Stadium Reserve was designed in consultation with Mana Whenua and key stakeholders, and aimed to:
- Provide new facilities, including a new playground and basketball half court
- Provide social gathering spaces and a recreational heart for Old Papatoetoe
- Offer pedestrians and cyclists new pathways through the reserve to encourage active transport and provide a direct and safe route between Papatoetoe and Puhinui train stations
- Retain significant trees and add more trees and shrubs
- New lighting to improve safety
- Improve stormwater management
- Retain a public recreation space with a green canopy for future generations.
Through the design process, Mana Whenua provided the narrative ‘The Mists of Kohuora,’ which shaped the playground design. This narrative is now reflected in the undulating mounds within the play area, as well as the rich volcanic colour palette used in the cushion-fall areas. Additionally, a swale weaves through the play area, featuring user-activated ‘misters’ that serve both as water play elements and acknowledges the area’s naturally misty landscape.