Last updated July 2026
The Memorial Park Paddling Pool is a free shallow outdoor pool in central Palmerston North’s Memorial Park on Main Street in Terrace End. It operates alongside a popular splashpad during the summer months and forms part of one of the city’s key family destinations.
Practical Information
| Location | Memorial Park, Main Street, Terrace End, Palmerston North |
| Type | Shallow outdoor paddling pool next to splashpad |
| Season | Summer only; open daily 10am to 9pm |
| Cost | Free |
| Best for | Families with young children |
| Parking | Available on site |
| Other facilities | Toilets, changing rooms, playground, picnic areas, skate rink |
| Dogs | Prohibited in the park |
About the Paddling Pool
The Memorial Park Paddling Pool is a fenced shallow pool maintained by Palmerston North City Council for summer family use. It sits directly beside the free splashpad, which features separate areas for babies, toddlers and older children, including a giant tipping bucket in the all-ages section.
The pool and splashpad open daily from 10am to 9pm during summer. The wider park includes a poppy-themed playground with accessible features such as ramps, slides, swings and climbing structures, plus a duck pond and shaded picnic areas.
Memorial Park is a dog-free zone with on-site toilets, changing rooms, parking and picnic tables. The combination of water play, playground and open space makes it a convenient central location for families on warm days.
Memorial Park Facilities and History
Memorial Park occupies the site of a former quarry used for railway ballast. It features a strong connection to wartime remembrance, including a Workers’ Memorial at the Fitzroy Street entrance and a howitzer donated by the New Zealand Defence Force in 2019.
Key facilities include the paddling pool and splashpad, playgrounds, skate rink, sportsgrounds and shaded lawns. The park underwent significant redevelopment following community consultation, with emphasis on family play, accessibility and water activities.
Combining With Nearby Attractions
Memorial Park lies a short distance from the Victoria Esplanade, allowing families to extend a visit with additional playgrounds, gardens and walking paths for a full-day outing in central Palmerston North.
What Visitors Often Say
Families praise the free paddling pool and splashpad as a reliable summer highlight for young children, noting the convenient location, adjacent playground and shaded picnic spots that support relaxed visits.
Practical feedback highlights the 10am to 9pm summer hours, the value of combining water play with the playground and lawns, and the benefit of arriving earlier on busy days for easier parking and space.
Where to Learn More
Palmerston North City Council – Memorial Park: official details on facilities, opening hours, history and access.
Palmerston North City Council – Free paddling pools: information on summer water play options across the city.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Memorial Park Paddling Pool?
In Memorial Park on Main Street, Terrace End, Palmerston North.
When is the pool open?
Daily from 10am to 9pm during the summer months.
Is entry free?
Yes, both the paddling pool and splashpad are free to use.
What ages is the pool suitable for?
Young children, with the splashpad offering separate zones for babies, toddlers and older kids.
Are toilets and changing facilities available?
Yes, on site along with parking and picnic areas.
Can dogs visit the park?
No, Memorial Park is a dog-free zone.
What other facilities are nearby?
The park includes a poppy-themed playground, skate rink, duck pond and sportsgrounds.
Can visits be combined with other attractions?
Yes, the nearby Victoria Esplanade offers additional family facilities for extended outings.
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