Whangamata adventure playground

If you’re heading to Whangamatā for a beach trip, this playground is worth factoring into the day. It’s got that proper adventure playground feel — the kind where kids actually have to think about what they’re doing rather than just going through the motions on standard equipment. Being this close to the coast means you’re often getting a decent breeze off the water, which honestly makes it a better spot than some of the more exposed parks around the region. Families tend to linger here longer than they plan to.