We’ve heard consistent requests for outdoor fitness options across Tauranga. Outdoor exercise areas offer an accessible way to stay active and connected, and the exercise equipment will cater to a wide range of ages and abilities. This project supports Council’s Play, Active Recreation and Sport Action and Investment Plan.
The equipment will provide another way for people to stay active, complementing playgrounds and sports facilities with options for informal, self-directed exercise.
The Parton Road–Pāpāmoa Beach Road site has been identified for an outdoor fitness space because it already has key amenities, is a popular spot for walking and recreation, has good visibility with natural screening, CCTV, and can be integrated into the Pāpāmoa Coastal Pathways extension project.
Construction is planned for mid-2026, but the design journey is just getting started.
Types of equipment
We’re keen to hear your ideas on equipment types and how you’d use them to help us create spaces that truly meet our community’s needs. We envisage the fitness station could include calisthenics (bodyweight stations like pull-up bars, dip bars), aerobic machines (elliptical, stepper, cycle) and/or strength/weight machines (chest press, leg press, etc.).
Budget and funding
Up to $150,000 has been allocated from the Spaces and Places budgets this year. The installation of outdoor exercise equipment was included as a project in the play programme approved by Council at the 7 April 2025 City Delivery Committee meeting.