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Auckland residents are being encouraged to turn quiet streets and cul-de-sacs into temporary playgrounds through a council-backed initiative highlighted during Play Week, from October 19 to 25.
Following a successful pilot, Auckland Council is supporting community-led play streets, allowing suitable residential roads to close to traffic for two to three hours so children can play and neighbours can gather.
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.
Auckland Council play portfolio lead Jacquelyn Collins said play streets help children play close to home while building connections across the neighbourhood.
“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,” she said.
The impact is already being felt in neighbourhoods that have hosted their own play streets.
Community member and play street host Rusalka said around 30 children and adults joined her neighbourhood’s first event, with bikes, scooters, chalk and a ball bringing neighbours together.
“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.
“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 said 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
Play streets temporarily close suitable residential roads to traffic for two to three hours, giving children space to play and neighbours a chance to gather. Residents interested in hosting an event can register with Auckland Council for support.
