Frank Kitts Park on Wellington’s waterfront is home to the Te Aro Mahana playspace — a reimagined waterfront playground that reopened in February 2024 after nearly three years of closure and redevelopment. The playspace takes its name from a phrase gifted by mana whenua Taranaki Whānui ki te Upoko o te Ika, meaning “warm front,” acknowledging the site’s connection to the historic Te Aro Pā. The playground sits on the harbour’s edge between the central city and Lambton Harbour, making it one of the most accessibly located playgrounds in Wellington.
Practical Information
| Location | Frank Kitts Park, Jervois Quay, Wellington waterfront |
|---|---|
| Access | Free; short walk from central Wellington, Queens Wharf and Te Papa |
| Opening hours | Open daily (outdoor playground) |
| Entry | Free |
| Age suitability | All ages; designed for children of varying ages |
| Facilities | Shaded seating within playspace; public toilets nearby in park |
| Managed by | Wellington City Council |
About Te Aro Mahana Playspace
The Te Aro Mahana playspace was designed around a maritime and coastal landscape theme, drawing on the harbour setting and the cultural history of Te Aro Pā that once occupied this part of the waterfront. The centrepiece of the design is the Whetū Mārama waka — meaning “Bright Star” — a large sculptural waka created by artist Matthew McIntyre-Wilson. The waka doubles as a climbing structure and is one of the most distinctive pieces of playground equipment in Wellington.
The playspace also includes a refurbished lighthouse — the original cupola dome from the beloved 1989 lighthouse slide has been retained and incorporated into the new, safer structure. Climbing nets, swing sets and a shaded seating area complete the design. The overall effect is a play environment that feels connected to both the waterfront location and the Māori history of the site.
Frank Kitts Park
Frank Kitts Park takes its name from Sir Frank Kitts, a popular Wellington mayor who served from 1956 to 1974. The park was renamed in his memory in 1979. The wider park is a regular venue for outdoor events, concerts and festivals on the Wellington waterfront, giving the playground a lively, social setting on weekends and during events.
Wellington City Council — Frank Kitts Park has information on the playspace and the wider park. RNZ — Frank Kitts Park playground reopens covers the 2024 reopening and the story behind the redesign.
FAQ
When did Frank Kitts Park playground reopen?
Te Aro Mahana playspace reopened in February 2024 after being closed since September 2021 for safety reasons and redevelopment.
What is the waka at Frank Kitts Park?
The Whetū Mārama waka (“Bright Star”) is a large sculptural climbing waka created by artist Matthew McIntyre-Wilson. It is the centrepiece of the Te Aro Mahana playspace and reflects the cultural history of Te Aro Pā on this site.
Is there still a lighthouse at Frank Kitts Park?
Yes — the new playspace includes a rebuilt lighthouse that incorporates the original cupola dome from the 1989 lighthouse slide. It is a safer structure than the original.
Is Frank Kitts Park playground free?
Yes — the playground is free and open daily as part of the public waterfront park.
How do I get to Frank Kitts Park?
The park is on Jervois Quay on Wellington’s waterfront, a short walk from Lambton Quay, Queens Wharf and Te Papa. It is easily reached on foot from central Wellington.
What age group is the playground suitable for?
The playspace has equipment for children of varying ages, including the waka climbing structure, nets, swings and a lighthouse. It is designed with a mix of challenge levels.
Browse all Wellington playgrounds at Playgrounds in Wellington. Freyberg Beach Playground at Oriental Bay is another popular waterfront play option nearby.