Auckland’s Long Forgotten Amusement Park, Luna Park

Photo: View from the ‘big dipper’, 1928. Ref 4-1730, Sir George Grey Special Collections, Auckland Library

Nearly a century ago, Auckland’s waterfront was home to a glittering amusement park — complete with a wooden rollercoaster, log flume and nightly shows. Opened in 1926, Luna Park promised endless thrills but lasted less than five years before fading into history.

Inspired by the success of Luna Park Melbourne, a group of Auckland businessmen launched Amusement Park Ltd, leasing three acres on the waterfront despite fierce opposition. Critics warned the park would “corrupt children” and argued Auckland was too small to sustain it. But on December 4, 1926, 10,000 people poured through its gates, riding the “big dipper” and marvelling at the lights and music.

Disaster struck just three months later when a fire tore through the park, destroying its tea rooms, funhouse and part of the rollercoaster. Damage costs soared to £10,000, and although it reopened, Luna Park never fully recovered.

Accidents and a second fire in 1928 further dented public trust. Attendance plunged as the Great Depression hit, and by 1931, the park shut down for good. Over half a million people had visited in its short life.

Photo: Fire at Luna Park, New Zealand Herald, Volume LXIV, Issue 19569, 23 February 1927

Today, nothing remains of the seaside wonder that once drew thousands. The site — now part of the Ports of Auckland— gives no hint of the laughter, lights and rollercoaster that once roared where cranes now stand.