This Play Week Aotearoa (19-25 October) Aucklanders are encouraged to embrace the power of play through Auckland Council’s growing play streets initiative, turning quiet residential streets and cul-de-sacs into places where neighbours connect, tamariki play freely and communities come together.
Led nationally by Sports NZ – Ihi Aotearoa, Play Week celebrates the power of play to bring people together, spark imagination and strengthen communities. This year’s theme, “whānau play where whānau are”, encourages people to find playful moments in the places where they already gather, belong and connect.
Following a successful pilot, Auckland Council is supporting the rollout of community-led play streets across Tāmaki Makaurau, making it easier for neighbourhoods to reclaim their streets as places for people, play and connection.
Jacquelyn Collins, Auckland Council Play Portfolio Lead, says play streets are a simple idea with a big impact.
"The theme, ‘whānau play where whānau are’, perfectly captures what play streets are all about. They transform everyday spaces into places of fun, connection and belonging. A cul-de-sac becomes a playground, neighbours become friends and tamariki experience the freedom of playing close to home.
“Play is essential for tamariki as they learn, explore and grow, but its benefits don’t stop there. Play helps rangatahi build confidence, supports wellbeing, encourages creativity and helps people of all ages stay connected, active and engaged.
The impact is already being felt in neighbourhoods that have hosted their own play streets.
Community member and play street host Rusalka, says around 30 children and adults joined her neighbourhood’s first play street, transforming a familiar street into a hub of bikes, scooters, chalk art, football, laughter and conversation.
“With the road closed to traffic, the kids had the freedom to spread out and play together, while neighbours came out for a chat and joined in the fun,” says Rusalka.
“It didn’t take much. A few bikes, some chalk and a ball were enough to bring people together. We saw connections being made and a real sense of community come to life. You might be surprised by how much your neighbourhood has to offer when you simply give people the space to come together.”
Deputy Mayor Desley Simpson says play streets are a throwback to a time before devices when kids played outside for hours with friends from their street.
“Play in the real world brings people together. The play streets initiative uses the power of play to create opportunities for neighbours to connect, help families spend time together and add a sense of fun and vitality to our communities.
“They’re also a fantastic example of how we can make the most of the spaces we already know and love. I encourage Aucklanders to get involved, gather their neighbours and experience the joy that comes from playing close to home.
How play streets work
For two to three hours, a suitable residential street can become a place where children play freely, whānau gather, and communities come together. No elaborate equipment is required, just imagination, a little space and a willingness to have fun.
Residents interested in hosting a Play Street can register with Auckland Council and receive support to help bring play to their neighbourhood.
Other ways to embrace Play Week include:
Play at libraries
There’s plenty of indoor fun too. Auckland Council Libraries are encouraging Aucklanders to unleash their imagination through Minecraft, chess and LEGO clubs and free board game loans at select libraries. Or step into the ring at Central City Library with friends and whānau to enjoy from the latest exhibition King Pin that is sure to delight boxing/wrestling fans, history buffs, fellow collectors and the generally curious.
Playful problem solving
Aucklanders can also put their problem-solving skills to the test at the launch of the Auckland edition of The Adaptation Game (TAG) on 21 October at the Fickling Convention Centre. This interactive experience uses local maps, climate scenarios and collaborative decision-making to help communities imagine and prepare for future challenges. It’s a reminder that play can help us tackle serious topics while bringing people together.
Communities at play
Communities throughout Auckland are also promoting their own play initiatives throughout Play Week, such as the new Kelston Grove artwork pathway, a vibrant addition to West Auckland that invites people to slow down, explore and experience their neighbourhood through creativity and play.
Parks, pools and picnics
And for those who love being active, Auckland Council Pool and Leisure centres, local parks and regional parks and Out & About Auckland offer endless opportunities for movement and fun, from roller skating and rock climbing to frisbee golf, nature and free play, picnics and impromptu games with friends and whānau. And don’t forget kids under 16 swim for free at Auckland Council pools!