Last updated July 2026
Frank Kitts Park is a popular inner-city park on the Wellington waterfront along Jervois Quay. It offers open grassy spaces, amphitheatre-style seating, sculptures and cafes with views across Lambton Harbour. The park includes the Te Aro Mahana playspace, which features a lighthouse structure and an interactive waka. It serves as a venue for small events and forms part of the waterfront promenade connecting Civic Square and Te Papa. Entry is free and the park is open daily.
Practical Information
| Location | Jervois Quay, Wellington waterfront between Civic Square and Te Papa |
| Hours | Open daily, 24 hours |
| Admission | Free |
| Facilities | Te Aro Mahana playspace, amphitheatre seating, sculptures, cafes, seating, toilets nearby, waterfront access |
| Dogs | Must be on a leash except in the children’s play area where dogs are not permitted |
| Accessibility | Most of the park is flat with steps and a ramp linking upper and lower areas |
| Getting There | Short walk from Wellington railway station and Lambton Quay; on the waterfront promenade |
About Frank Kitts Park
Frank Kitts Park occupies reclaimed land on the Wellington waterfront that was previously part of the commercial port. Land reclamation occurred between 1970 and 1973, and the park was developed for public use in the late 1980s after the land was no longer required by the Wellington Harbour Board. The park is named after Sir Francis Joseph Kitts, who served as Wellington mayor from 1956 to 1974.
The design of the park was influenced by the annual street car race that once ran through the area, which explains the high wall along the city side of the promenade for spectator safety. Today the park features tiered amphitheatre-style seating suitable for picnics and small outdoor events, along with several notable sculptures including works by Tanya Ashken, Paul Dibble and Len Lye.
The waterfront promenade passes through the park, linking it to other waterfront spaces such as Waitangi Park to the south. Management of the park follows the Wellington Waterfront Framework, and the site retains cultural significance due to its proximity to the former Te Aro Pā.
Te Aro Mahana Playspace
The Te Aro Mahana playspace reopened on 29 February 2024 following a redevelopment of the original playground that dated from 1989. The new design adopts a maritime and coastal theme with interconnected play areas that include a safer lighthouse structure incorporating the refurbished original cupola dome, climbing nets, swing sets and shaded seating.
At the heart of the playspace is the interactive play waka named Whetuu Maarama, created by artist Matthew McIntyre-Wilson. Mana whenua Taranaki Whānui ki te Upoko o te Ika gifted the name Te Aro Mahana, which acknowledges the site’s connection to Te Aro Pā and the sense of warmth and belonging.
The playspace is a popular destination for families and forms a key attraction within the larger park. It replaced an earlier playground that had been closed for redevelopment since 2016 after earlier plans faced delays and cost increases.
Events and Waterfront Access
Frank Kitts Park regularly hosts small outdoor events, markets and gatherings thanks to its central location and tiered seating areas. Bookings for events can be made through Wellington City Council’s outdoor event form.
The park lies on the continuous waterfront promenade that runs from the ferry terminal area in the north to Oriental Parade in the south. This walkway provides easy pedestrian access and connects visitors to nearby attractions including Te Papa and Civic Square.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors appreciate the park as a convenient waterfront spot for walking, relaxing and watching harbour activity, with good facilities for families and children.
Many note the pleasant open spaces, interesting sculptures and the appeal of the playground as a draw for locals and tourists alike, especially on fine days.
Where to Learn More
Wellington City Council — Frank Kitts Park and Te Aro Mahana playspace: official details on facilities, history, accessibility and events.
Wikipedia — Frank Kitts Park: overview with references to council records and development history.
Wellington City Council — Wellington waterfront: context on the broader waterfront promenade and connected parks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Frank Kitts Park free to enter?
Yes, the park is free and open daily at all times.
Where is Frank Kitts Park located?
It sits on Jervois Quay on the Wellington waterfront between Civic Square and Te Papa, a short walk from the railway station and Lambton Quay.
What is the Te Aro Mahana playspace?
It is the redeveloped playground at Frank Kitts Park that reopened in February 2024, featuring a lighthouse structure, climbing nets, swings and an interactive waka within a maritime theme.
Are dogs allowed in Frank Kitts Park?
Dogs must be kept on a leash throughout the park except in the children’s play area where they are not permitted at all.
Can events be held at the park?
Yes, the tiered amphitheatre seating supports small outdoor events and bookings are available through Wellington City Council.
Is the park accessible for wheelchairs?
Most of the park is flat, with steps and a ramp connecting the upper and lower sections.
What sculptures are in the park?
Notable works include the Albatross by Tanya Ashken, Fruits of the Garden by Paul Dibble and Water Whirler by Len Lye.
Is there parking nearby?
The Frank Kitts Park car park is available with fees and time restrictions; additional paid parking exists on surrounding waterfront streets.
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