Tucked into the heart of Mount Albert, at the corner of New North Road and Wairere Avenue, Rocket Park has been a place of imagination, energy, and community connection for generations. This month marks 25 years since its major transformation in 2000, a milestone well worth celebrating.
While the park’s roots stretch back to the post–World War II era, when locals rallied to fund a meaningful memorial for those who served, it was the early 2000s that truly redefined Rocket Park. That’s when Playground People won the Auckland Council tender to upgrade the playground, our first major Kompan project, featuring equipment from the groundbreaking Galaxy range. It was a project that changed the game for playgrounds across Aotearoa.
The redevelopment was led by Auckland Council project manager Philippa Bolland, with overall design by landscape architect Catherine Hamilton, now a principal at WSP and the creative force behind Christchurch’s iconic Margaret Mahy Playground. Working closely with Catherine, Playground People selected and configured the Kompan equipment to bring her vision to life, ensuring it complemented the park’s unique layout and character.
Rocket Park in May 2001
The rocket itself has always been Rocket Park’s beating heart, a bold, space-age structure that’s thrilled tamariki for decades. But what made the 2001 upgrade truly significant was its forward-thinking approach to accessibility. This wasn’t just a playground with ramps, it was a paradigm shift. Rocket Park helped introduce the idea that every child, regardless of ability, deserves to play side by side.
It also became a testing ground for new play experiences. The park was home to New Zealand’s first five-way contact swing, a bold addition at the time that raised a few eyebrows but quickly became a firm favourite with kids and parents alike. Rocket Park also introduced the now-ubiquitous Spica spinner, a dynamic, stand-and-spin piece of equipment that proved so popular we’ve since installed hundreds of them in playgrounds all over the country. Both pieces helped set new benchmarks for fun, social interaction and movement in playground design.
Fun for thousands of children and families over the years.
At the time, the $200,000 equipment price tag was one of the largest investments ever made in a New Zealand playground. But looking back on 25 years of climbing, sliding, laughter, and connection, the value is undeniable. Rocket Park stands as a shining example of sustainability. Many playgrounds would’ve been replaced twice in that time. This one shows how great design, quality materials and community care, can extend a playground’s life well beyond the norm.
Something for all ages
Over the years, a few additions have kept things fresh, exercise equipment, more inclusive play elements and in 2014, the reopening of the rocket tower for climbing. Yet much of what was installed in 2001 remains. That’s a testament to Kompan’s quality and to the dedicated aftercare provided by Playground People and the Auckland Councils maintenance teams.
We’re incredibly proud that our first destination playground is still going strong. A whole generation of kids have grown up under that rocket’s shadow and we’re thrilled that it’s still sparking joy for families in 2025. It wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that this playground has seen hundreds of thousands of play hours over its lifetime.
Rocket Park isn’t just a playground. It’s a community legacy and we’re honoured to have played a part in it.