Wellington’s Best Fenced Playgrounds
By Rebecca
@kids.eat.world
Have you ever turned up to an epic playground only to spend the whole time keeping your little escape artist away from the road? Do you have multiple kids and find the juggle of keeping eyes on them all makes a playground visit too overwhelming? Well then this post is for you.
We’ve rounded up our top picks of fully-fenced playgrounds in Wellington to help take the stress out of your next playground trip. Whether you need to actually finish your coffee, juggle multiple kids without the panic, or just want to chat with other parents instead of standing guard at every exit—these playgrounds have you covered.
Check out these great spots and plenty of others on the Roam with Kids app!
Botanic Gardens Playground
101 Glenmore Street, Kelburn, Wellington
One of the best playgrounds in Wellington also happens to be fully fenced! Nestled in the stunning Botanic Gardens, this playground got a fantastic upgrade in 2024, making it even better for kids of all ages. The play area is fenced and has some shade sails (because let’s be honest, New Zealand’s sun is no joke). Swings and picnic tables sit just outside the fenced area, so you can still have a snack break in sight of the action. Combine with a leisurely stroll around the gardens or a trip on Wellington’s iconic cable car (if you can convince the kids to leave the playground).
What we love: Fantastic playground, shade sails, and scenic surroundings.
Wadestown Play Area
111 Wadestown Road, Wadestown, Wellington
This awesome fully-fenced playground is attached to Wadestown playgroup, so it’s no surprise that it is perfect for preschoolers. You’ll find plenty of play options for under 5s including an in-ground trampoline, slides, a carousel, and a sandpit. There’s a basketball hoop for older kids as well. Enjoy a packed lunch at the shade-covered picnic tables with the peace of mind of a fully-fenced play space.
What we love: The toddler-friendly setup and variety of play equipment.
Miramar North Play Area, Centennial Park
120 Miramar North Road, Miramar, Wellington
This hidden gem in Centennial Park is a great option for families near Miramar. Recently upgraded, the playground features sensory play elements, a carousel, swings, and climbing structures. The fully-fenced design makes it a safe and enjoyable spot for little adventurers and sleep-deprived parents.
What we love: One of the larger fenced playgrounds in central Wellington, perfect for playdates.
Te Kohanga Manaaki - Petone Playscape
72 Cuba Street, Petone, Lower Hutt
A fully-fenced playground and a coffee cart? Yes please! This play paradise for under 5s has sand pits, water play, climbing structures, and slides. Petone Playscape is connected to Petone Salvation Army and is open from 7am to 7pm.
What we love: Unique play options like water play and sand pits—things you don't often find at a playground!
Owhiro Bay Play Area
21 Happy Valley Road, Owhiro Bay, Wellington
Don’t let old photos fool you, this small suburban playground is perfect for under 5s thanks to its recent upgrade. The main playhouse structure gives opportunities for imaginary play, while the picnic table gives you the opportunity to relax a little. There are also swings, a slide, and a small green space too.
What we love: A cozy, modern play space with a picnic table for snack breaks.
Newtown Public Play Park (Constable Street Play Area)
9 Constable Street, Newtown, Wellington
This small fully-fenced playground makes our list because of its prime location right next to the Newtown Library and shops. The play equipment is simple and a bit older, but it still keeps young kids entertained long enough for you to enjoy a takeaway coffee from one of Newtown’s many great cafes.
What we love: The shady tree for hot days and the convenience of nearby amenities.
Kilbirnie Recreation Centre
101 Kilbirnie Crescent, Kilbirnie, Wellington
Need indoor entertainment? Kilbirnie Recreation Centre is a fantastic space for kids of all ages. Preschoolers will love the ‘Tinytown’ indoor play area, an interactive space with ride-on toys and high energy activities. There is plenty for older kids including a skatepark, rollerblade lessons, and inflatables. Session times and prices vary depending on what you want to do. Tinytown is $5 for preschoolers.
What we love: Perfect for rainy days or when you need a guaranteed energy burn-off session.
Holly Grove Playground
173 Dowse Drive, Maungaraki, Lower Hutt
This Lower Hutt playground is a great fully-fenced option if you’re in the area. It’s just a short walk from the family-favourite Benedicts cafe which we cover in our kid-friendly cafes blog post. Get two activities while only having to get the kids out of the car once. Most of the play structures are suited for older kids, but there’s a small toddler section too.
What we love: A stress-free, fully-fenced play option in Lower Hutt.
Parkway family playground
Parkway, Wainuiomata, Lower Hutt
This large playground has a fully-fenced section for younger kids, and a separate unfenced playground for older kids which has a flying fox. This spot makes our list as it’s surrounded by field space perfect for a game of soccer or flying a kite. Bonus points for the ample street parking right by the entrance.
What we love: Play options for all ages, plus space to run around.
Mitre 10 Mega and Bunnings (throughout Wellington)
Need a rainy day plan that doesn’t involve the kids turning your house upside down? Mitre 10 Mega and Bunnings stores have indoor fenced playgrounds, and they’re usually right next to a cafe too. Whether you actually need DIY supplies or just need to escape the house, these play areas are a lifesaver in bad weather or when there’s a southerly.
What we love: Wet-weather play for the kids and coffee for you.
Finding a safe and stress-free playground in Wellington doesn’t have to be a mission. These fully-fenced gems can give you peace of mind while letting your little ones run, play, and burn off some of that endless energy.
