Last updated June 2026
The Apollo Park in Palmerston North, also known as Butterfly Park, features a space-themed playground with a large rocket for climbing and spinning, alongside gardens designed to support native butterflies.
Located in the Milson suburb, the park combines play facilities with open spaces for picnics and informal recreation. It draws families seeking a distinctive suburban park experience in Palmerston North.
Practical Information
| Location | 72 Apollo Parade, Milson, Palmerston North 4414 |
| Theme | Space-themed playground with butterfly gardens |
| Equipment | Large rocket climber and spinner, climbing frame, swings |
| Setting | Suburban park with picnic tables, seating, walkways and views |
| Parking | Available on site |
| Dogs | On lead only |
| Toilets | None on site |
| Playground upgrade | 2018 |
About Apollo Park
Apollo Park lies in the heart of the Milson suburb of Palmerston North. The park takes its name from the Apollo space programme, with surrounding streets also referencing the space race and solar system, such as Jupiter Street and Gemini Avenue.
The playground features a large rocket that children can climb on and spin around in, continuing the space theme. The playground was upgraded in 2018.
In 2012 a community effort transformed part of the park into a sanctuary for native butterflies. Plants were chosen to attract butterflies and provide food for caterpillars. The best time to see butterflies is from December to April in the early morning, when Monarchs, Red and Yellow Admirals, New Zealand Coppers and Little Blues may be spotted.
The park offers picnic tables, seating and walkways. It suits family visits focused on play and nature observation, with dogs permitted on lead.
Butterfly Gardens
The butterfly sanctuary at Apollo Park began in 2012 after local resident Paul Vandenberg noticed hundreds of Monarch butterflies overwintering in the park’s willow trees. The gardens now feature plants selected to support native butterflies throughout their life cycle.
Visitors can observe butterflies in the dedicated area, which lies 110 metres from the main park entrance, a distance chosen to match the length of the Saturn V rocket.
What Visitors Often Say
Families note the distinctive rocket-themed playground and the opportunity to see butterflies in the gardens. The park is described as a quiet suburban spot suitable for younger children and picnics.
Practical comments mention free parking, the absence of toilets on site, and that the space theme and butterfly area provide a unique draw compared with standard playgrounds.
Where to Learn More
Palmerston North City Council – Apollo Park: official page with location details, features and history of the space theme and butterfly gardens.
Palmerston North City Council Playgrounds: information on the wider network of playgrounds in Palmerston North.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Apollo Park?
Apollo Park is at 72 Apollo Parade in the Milson suburb of Palmerston North.
What is the playground theme?
The playground has a space theme featuring a large rocket for climbing and spinning, reflecting the park’s naming after the Apollo space programme.
Why is it called Butterfly Park?
The park includes gardens established in 2012 as a sanctuary for native butterflies, with plants chosen to attract species such as Monarchs and Admirals.
Is it free?
Yes, Apollo Park is a free public park.
Are there toilets?
There are no toilets on site at Apollo Park.
Can dogs visit?
Dogs are permitted on lead only.
When is the best time to see butterflies?
Butterflies are most visible from December to April in the early morning.
Is parking available?
Yes, parking is available at the park.
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