Barry Curtis Park

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Barry Curtis Park is a large public park in Flat Bush, Auckland, named after Barry Curtis. The first stage opened in April 2009. The park covers about 94 hectares (230 acres) and is one of New Zealand’s biggest parks.

It was created from dairy farming land bought by Manukau City Council from the Anglican Church Trust Board for $2.9 million as part of a 290-hectare purchase. Barry Curtis Park is the central part of a wider Green Fingers network of parks that follow about 45 km of streams in the Flat Bush area.

Ecology and water play important roles. The park’s planning involved groups like Forest & Bird and the Auckland Regional Council. The water features also serve as stormwater ponds and include fish ladders to keep habitats connected.

Facilities include event spaces, large playgrounds, and a multi-sports centre. Future plans add more playing fields and a network of educational trails along the main routes.

Barry Curtis Park has won several awards: an Outstanding Award from the New Zealand Recreation Association, and three awards from the New Zealand Institute of Landscape Architects (Gold for the Wetland Playground at Stancombe Road; Silver for the Signature Areas design; Silver for Project Management).