Fowlds Park
50 Western Springs Road, Morningside

This large park borders the suburbs of Mt Albert and Western Springs.

It is perfect for kids and families with the playground located in a pleasant, grassed area near Malvern Road.

The playground is well shaded by large trees through the hottest part of the day. There are picnic tables, seating and a barbecue nearby to enable longer stays. Accessible toilets are on the side of the path by the large car park.

Sports fields take up a large area of the park. You can access the fitness equipment from the wide path around the southern edge of the fields. The netball courts are next to the large car park.

The northern bank leading up to Western Springs Road has a stand of significant trees, including eucalyptus. The path up to the road is steep.

Vehicles can access the car parks from Rocky Nook Avenue and Malvern Road. Pedestrians can also access from Brewster Avenue, Wolseley Street, and Western Springs Road.

Follow the 1km Fowlds Park Path around the park.

The park is also part of 'The Peoples Walk in the Ōwairaka' – Mt Albert Heritage Walks brochure (PDF 3.3MB).

Accessible features at this park

Accessible spaces available in the car park off Rocky Nook Avenue.

There is an accessible basket swing at the playground. A wide flat path connects the Malvern Road entrance with the playground. Raised edges around the playground may be a barrier to those with access needs.

History of the park

The land for was originally set aside for asylum purposes. A land swap for education purposes in 1892 changed the course of the park's development.

The land was initially used for grazing, quarrying and land filling. An early vision to develop the land for public enjoyment didn't eventuate. Then in the 1930s the depression hit and relief workers began developing the park.

Morningside Reserve was the park's original name. This changed when the park opened on 2 March 1935 to honour knighted politician George Fowlds. A plaque on the ornamental entrance gates on Rocky Nook Avenue acknowledges his effort to acquire the land.

Groups at this park

The Friends of Fowlds Park are a group of local residents who look out for the best interests of the park.

The sports fields are home to Mount Albert Rugby League over the winter and Auckland United Softball in the summer.

The bowling greens are home to the Rocky Nook Bowling Club which is also home to the Auckland Irish Society.