Motutawa Avalon Park in Lower Hutt is home to one of New Zealand’s largest and most impressive regional playgrounds — a six-hectare park on the banks of the Hutt River with extensive play equipment for children from toddlers to 12-year-olds, plus mini golf, paddle boats and a miniature railway. Opened in 2016, the playground is a major regional destination that attracts families from across the Wellington region and beyond. Entry to the park and playground is free.
Practical Information
| Location | Hutt River, Avalon, Lower Hutt |
|---|---|
| Access | Car park at the park; bus from Lower Hutt CBD |
| Entry | Free (playground); charges apply for miniature railway, mini golf, paddle boats |
| Key playground equipment | Twin flying fox, Amazon Tower slide, Super Mega Swing, Helix and Red Spaceball climbing frames, water play, sandpits, bird’s nest swings, climbing walls, tunnels |
| Toddler area | Yes — dedicated under-fives area with slides, sandpits and water play |
| Extra activities | Miniature railway (weekends and public holidays), mini golf, paddle boats |
| Facilities | Toilets, BBQ areas, picnic tables, drinking water, ample parking |
| Managed by | Hutt City Council |
About the Playground
Avalon Park Playground is purpose-designed as a regional destination — scaled up significantly from a typical suburban playground. The main play area caters for children aged two to twelve, with equipment spanning a wide range of challenges. The twin flying fox (side by side) is a highlight for older children. The Amazon Tower is a large multi-level slide and climbing structure. The Super Mega Swing, bird’s nest swings, Helix and Red Spaceball climbing frames, tunnels and climbing walls fill out a comprehensive equipment list that can occupy children for hours.
The under-fives area is a dedicated zone with slides, sandpits and a small artificial stream with water play equipment — a practical arrangement that allows different age groups to play in appropriate spaces without the older children dominating. Shade cloths over parts of the play area provide sun protection during summer.
Miniature Railway and Extras
Avalon Park’s miniature railway operates on weekends and public holidays, looping through the park — a perennially popular feature for young children and a reason many families return repeatedly. Mini golf and paddle boats are also available, making the park a multi-activity destination that can fill an entire day. BBQ facilities and picnic areas support extended family visits.
Hutt City Council — Motutawa Avalon Park has current information on facilities, the miniature railway schedule and amenities. Kids On Board — Avalon Playground covers the playground from a family visitor perspective.
FAQ
Is Avalon Park Playground free?
Yes — the playground is free. Charges apply for the miniature railway, mini golf and paddle boats.
When does the miniature railway operate?
The Avalon Park miniature railway operates on weekends and public holidays.
Is there a toddler area at Avalon Park?
Yes — a dedicated under-fives area has slides, sandpits and water play equipment, separate from the main playground.
How far is Avalon Park from Wellington city?
Avalon Park is in Lower Hutt, approximately 15–20 kilometres from Wellington’s city centre — about a 25-minute drive.
What is the best age range for Avalon Park Playground?
The playground is designed for toddlers to 12-year-olds, with dedicated areas for under-fives and more challenging equipment for older children.
Browse all Wellington region playgrounds at Playgrounds in Wellington. Harcourt Park Playground in Upper Hutt is another excellent regional play destination.
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