Last updated July 2026
Nairnville Park is a sports and recreation reserve in the Khandallah suburb of Wellington. The park features an artificial all-weather sportsfield, a play area and changing rooms, and serves as a community hub for the northern suburbs. The adjacent Nairnville Recreation Centre provides indoor facilities including a multi-purpose sports hall and squash court. Outdoor areas are free and open at all times, with the play area renewed in 2023 to include equipment for a range of ages.
Practical Information
| Location | Cockayne Road / Lucknow Terrace, Khandallah, Wellington |
| Getting There | Johnsonville train line to Khandallah station; buses serve the area; short drive from central Wellington |
| Parking | Street parking available nearby |
| Entry | Free for outdoor park areas; some indoor centre charges apply |
| Facilities | Artificial all-weather sportsfield, play area, changing rooms |
| Recreation Centre | Multi-purpose sports hall, squash court, community room with kitchen; programmes for all ages |
| Hours (Centre) | Monday–Thursday 8.30am–10pm or 9pm, Friday 8.30am–9pm, Saturday–Sunday 9am–8pm (subject to change) |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair access to centre; contact for specific needs |
About Nairnville Park
Nairnville Park functions as the main outdoor sports and recreation space for Khandallah and surrounding northern suburbs. Its artificial all-weather sportsfield supports football, rugby, cricket, netball and athletics year-round, with changing rooms available on site.
The park is listed on the Wellington City Council sportsgrounds page with details of its facilities and booking options for the synthetic turf. It sits at the corner of Cockayne Road and Lucknow Terrace, providing convenient access for local residents and community groups.
Outdoor areas remain open at all times with no entry fee, making the park a reliable option for casual use and organised sport regardless of weather conditions.
Nairnville Park Playground
The play area at Nairnville Park was renewed in 2023 with new equipment added to support children of all ages. Work was completed and the area reopened to the public in late August 2023.
The upgraded play space forms part of Wellington City Council’s ongoing refresh of playgrounds across the city and complements the sports facilities, making the park a popular family destination.
Nairnville Recreation Centre
The Nairnville Recreation Centre, located at the same address, offers indoor facilities including a multi-purpose sports hall suitable for basketball, netball, volleyball, pickleball and badminton, plus a squash court and a large community room with kitchen facilities.
The centre runs programmes and activities for preschoolers, school-age children, adults and seniors, including school holiday programmes, leagues and fitness classes. It is operated by Wellington City Council and accepts bookings for court hire and room use.
What Visitors Often Say
Families appreciate the combination of the renewed playground and nearby sports facilities, noting it works well for children of different ages playing together.
Local users value the reliable all-weather field for training and matches, and the recreation centre for indoor options during wet weather.
Where to Learn More
Wellington City Council – Nairnville Recreation Centre: Details on facilities, programmes, hours and bookings.
Wellington City Council – Sportsground locations: Full list including Nairnville Park facilities and sports supported.
Wellington City Council – Sportsground bookings: Information on hiring the synthetic turf and other facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Nairnville Park free?
Outdoor park areas including the sportsfield and playground are free and open at all times. Some indoor recreation centre facilities have hire charges or entry fees.
What sports are played at Nairnville Park?
The artificial all-weather sportsfield supports football, rugby, cricket, netball and athletics. Changing rooms are available.
Is there a playground at Nairnville Park?
Yes. The play area was renewed in 2023 with equipment for children of various ages and reopened in late August that year.
What facilities does the Nairnville Recreation Centre offer?
The centre has a multi-purpose sports hall, squash court, community room with kitchen, and runs programmes for all ages including school holiday activities.
How do I get to Nairnville Park?
Khandallah is served by the Johnsonville train line. The park is a short walk from Khandallah station. Street parking is available nearby.
Can I book the sportsfield or centre facilities?
Yes. Bookings for the synthetic turf and indoor courts or rooms are handled through Wellington City Council. Check the council website for current fees and availability.
Is the playground suitable for all ages?
The 2023 renewal added equipment designed to support tamariki of different ages and abilities.
Are there accessibility options?
The recreation centre provides wheelchair access. Contact the centre for specific requirements or assistance.
Spotted something incorrect on this page? Let us know.