About ActivZone Indoor Sports Arena
ActivZone is an indoor sports and entertainment venue on Auckland’s North Shore, located at 30 Downing Street in Glenfield (www.aucklandleisure.co.nz ). It’s run by Auckland Council and is widely known as “the home of skating on the North Shore” (www.aucklandleisure.co.nz ). The centre features a giant multipurpose rink (capacity about 219 people (www.aucklandleisure.co.nz )) with state-of-the-art sound and lighting systems (www.aucklandleisure.co.nz ) (kidslink.co.nz ). Signature features include laser disco lighting, a skate shop and an on-site café (www.aucklandleisure.co.nz ) (kidslink.co.nz ). The rink is specially designed for wheeled sports and can accommodate roller skating, rollerblading, inline hockey and even indoor soccer. ActivZone’s friendly, energetic atmosphere has made it a local icon, fostering generations of skaters in the community (kidslink.co.nz ). It’s housed next to the Glenfield Pool & Leisure Centre (www.aucklandleisure.co.nz ), making it a key hub in the local recreation precinct.
Events and Programming
ActivZone runs a packed calendar of activities year-round, catering especially to families, youth sports teams and party-goers. Every day during school term there are open skate sessions for all ages (for example, afternoons Monday–Thursday and weekends) and special weekly events. Notably, ActivZone hosts a “Coffee Club” morning skate session every Friday (term-time, $8 including coffee and skate hire) as well as a popular Friday Night Disco session (7–9pm) with music and lights, admission $8.60 including skate hire (www.aucklandleisure.co.nz ). During school holidays the venue runs fun roller-skate camps and day programs for kids (www.eventfinda.co.nz ).
In addition to public sessions, ActivZone is home to several clubs and sports teams. The North Shore Artistic Roller Skating Club practices there (www.aucklandleisure.co.nz ), and it recently hosted Auckland Roller Derby matches (e.g. Auckland vs Sulphur City, Oct 2022 (www.eventfinda.co.nz )). The centre also includes an inline hockey rink and is home to the North Shore Vipers inline hockey team (www.aucklandleisure.co.nz ). Many themed skate parties and disco events are held – for example “Studio 54” or 80s nights for families and adults (www.eventfinda.co.nz ) (www.eventfinda.co.nz ) – as well as fundraisers like the “Barbie Dreamhouse Roller Disco” and charity skate evenings (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). Special events on the calendar include intergalactic-themed roller rodeos and holiday discos (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). Overall, ActivZone’s programming blends fitness, skill classes (all-ages learn-to-skate programmes) and high-energy parties. Typical ticket prices are very affordable (around $7–9 for skate sessions, see below). Many events sell out, so check the schedule in advance and book early.
Tickets and Booking
Most skate sessions and events at ActivZone can be booked through the Auckland Council Leisure website or at the centre’s reception. There is no separate commercial box office; tickets and passes are handled in-house. Standard casual admissions are modest: for example, casual skate entry is $9.10 for adults and $7.50 for children (www.aucklandleisure.co.nz ). Skate hire is an additional $4.80 and helmet hire $2 (helmets are mandatory for all sessions (www.aucklandleisure.co.nz ) (www.aucklandleisure.co.nz )). Family discounts and 10-visit passes offer savings for frequent visitors (www.aucklandleisure.co.nz ). Party packages (e.g. private birthday hire) are also available by booking the party or arena space in advance (www.aucklandleisure.co.nz ) (www.aucklandleisure.co.nz ).
For popular events (themed roller discos, school holiday programs), tickets often go on sale weeks in advance and may sell out early. It’s best to check the official ActivZone schedule or call ahead, and secure tickets online or by calling the centre as soon as dates are announced. Walk-up tickets at the door may be available for many public skate sessions, but arriving early is wise on busy days. Note that certain special sessions (like late-night discos) have age limits (e.g. 16+ or R16) and may require pre-registration. There are no third-party ticket vendors; all sales are managed directly through ActivZone (Auckland Leisure).
Seating and Layout
ActivZone is essentially a large open oval rink with a smooth polished floor – there are no fixed seats or grandstands. The floor space (capacity ~219 people (www.aucklandleisure.co.nz )) is mostly general admission. During open sessions, skaters freely use the entire rink. Spectators can stand or sit around the perimeter or in a small raised area near the reception and café. In-party-mode, portable seating or picnic tables may be set up behind the rink. A party room (up to ~25 people) is available for private bookings (www.aucklandleisure.co.nz ). Acoustics are lively given the booming sound system, and most spectators stand on the sides near the skaters. The best “view” for enjoying the lights and music is from the rink itself or the immediate perimeter. Because seating is informal, wearing comfortable clothes and shoes (no high heels or street shoes on the skating floor) is recommended.
During events, Vip-style “front row” is essentially on-skates on the rink. There are no numbered seats to avoid – just grab space near friends or the action. The entire layout is single-floor; all activities happen on one level (ramp-free entry). A scoreboard or elevated stage is not present since performances are at floor level – the DJ booth and club music energise the space. If you prefer not to skate, note that spectators attend free (no entry fee if you remain off the rink) (www.aucklandleisure.co.nz ), and you can simply watch from the sidelines. Glow lights hang from the ceiling and lasers added during discos, so visually the entire space is immersive.
Getting There and Parking
ActivZone’s exact address is 30 Downing Street, Glenfield, Auckland 0629 (www.aucklandleisure.co.nz ). It’s easy to reach by car or public transport. By car, follow Glenfield Road north off the Northern Motorway or Lake Road, then turn onto Downing Street. There is ample on-street parking around the venue (kidslink.co.nz ); signs should indicate time limits (most street parking in Glenfield is free or paid via apps). Parking is shared with the adjacent Leisure Centre, and spaces can fill up at peak times, so plan to arrive a bit early. Rideshare/taxis can drop off at the main entrance on Downing Street.
By bus, several Auckland Transport routes serve Glenfield. The nearest stop is “Downing Street Reserve” (on Downing St just a 1-minute walk away) (moovitapp.com ). Routes 95B, 95C, 906, 926 and 939 run via Glenfield from the city and North Shore, stopping within 100m of ActivZone. Other nearby stops include Peach Road and Glenfield Mall (about a 5–6 minute walk) (moovitapp.com ). Glenfield Mall, with its shops, is also on several routes and a short walk. The Northern Express bus (NX1) travels a few blocks south on Downing Street if you walk from Constellation Station. There is no train station in Glenfield, so the bus is the main transit option.
In summary: it’s a straightforward North Shore address with free street parking and multiple bus lines. The nearby Glenfield Mall provides an easy landmark (it’s about 300m away). From central Auckland the journey can be 20–30 minutes by car or roughly 30–50 minutes by bus (depending on traffic and route). Signs on Downing St clearly mark the entrances to ActivZone/Glenfield Pool, and the venue’s main entrance is at street level.
Inside the Venue
When you arrive, proceed to the reception counter. For public skate sessions, you typically pay or show your online booking there. You’ll be given a wristband or stamp to indicate your session or party booking. There is a small skate shop at reception selling basic gear (socks, wheels, protective items) as well as providing skate and helmet hire. Helmets are now compulsory for everyone; if you don’t have one, helmets are available to hire on-site for $2 (www.aucklandleisure.co.nz ), and the centre strongly recommends bringing or wearing one at all times (www.aucklandleisure.co.nz ). You will then enter through the main rink doors. Staff usually check that skaters have socks on before putting on rented skates (no bare feet, no street shoes on the rink).
Security checks are minimal – it’s a community sports centre, so expect bag inspection at entry as is common at leisure centres. Outside food and drink is generally not needed since the ActivZone café sells hot and cold snacks, coffee and drinks (kidslink.co.nz ). The café has counter seating overlooking the rink and offers typical fare (sandwiches, pies, coffee, juices). Note, however, that alcohol is not served in the skate arena – the café is family-friendly. You can bring your own small water bottle onto the rink, but glass bottles are discouraged on the skating floor.
Inside, you’ll find a vibrant party vibe: the lights are often dimmed except for neon and laser fixtures. Music is played over the house system continuously during sessions and events. There is free Wi-Fi available in the complex (provided by Auckland Leisure centres). Restrooms are located near the café; there are also changing rooms for skaters. For personal items, no formal coat check is provided, so the best approach is to leave belongings with a friend or near seating. For official merchandise, the skate shop might have branded items, though most people just bring their own gear. Staff are friendly and happy to answer questions, help with skate fitting, or give quick skating tips if needed. In case of any accidents or falls, there is standard first aid equipment on hand. Overall, expect a supervised but casual environment geared toward fun: most staff are coaches or lifeguards trained in skate sports and child safety.
Nearby Amenities
There are plenty of conveniences around ActivZone. Directly across the street on Downing Street are a few popular pubs and bars – notably “The Postman’s Leg” (at 41–53 Downing Street) which serves pub meals and drinks (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). “Mavericks Bar” and “Spirit’d Bar” are also within a few minutes’ walk, offering snacks and an evening atmosphere. For families, Glenfield Mall is just 300–400m away (about a 5-minute walk) (moovitapp.com ). At Glenfield Mall you’ll find a food court and eateries (fast-food chains, Asian cuisine outlets, coffee shops), supermarkets, a cinema and other shops. Around Glenfield Road (near the mall) there are cafes and restaurants including Italian, Indian and Asian restaurants, as well as pizza and fish-and-chips spots – useful for a pre-event meal or post-skate snack.
Hotels in the immediate Glenfield area are limited; most visitors stay in nearby suburbs like Takapuna (10km south). However, for early arrivals, the Glenfield area has motels and serviced apartments a short drive away. For late-night transport, Auckland’s bus network runs until midnight (the 94 and 941 routes are late-night services from Auckland), and rideshare apps are commonly used. The Postman’s Leg and some restaurants around Glenfield stay open till late, catering to post-event crowds. Visitors often arrive at least 15–20 minutes before their session start time to park, check in and gear up; evening events can get busy, so planning extra time is advisable.
What Makes This Venue Special
ActivZone’s uniqueness comes from blending sport and entertainment in a local community setting. It’s far from a stiff arena – it’s a bright, energetic rink where kids and adults alike can skate, party and play indoor sports. Architecturally it’s a simple high-ceiling hall, but what stands out is the atmosphere: disco lights, booming music and a friendly crowd. The combination of a professional skate rink with a party vibe (complete with lasers and a dedicated DJ booth at disco nights) is rare in Auckland. Locals love that it feels nostalgic and inclusive – even staff often grew up skating there (kidslink.co.nz ). Cultural highlights include charity skate events supporting local causes, and it’s one of the few Auckland venues where roller derby and artistic skating thrive side-by-side.
Over the years, ActivZone has hosted countless memorable moments: from a family’s first birthday party on wheels, to gritty roller derby bouts, to teens grooving at a themed “Y2K” disco night (www.eventfinda.co.nz ). Its cultural impact is seen in the strong community it built – local skaters have progressed to national competitions, and newcomers often find a welcoming “rollin’ community” here. The venue also helps keep children active in a fun way. City planners have even noted its role in providing specialised sports access on the North Shore (infocouncil.aucklandcouncil.govt.nz ). In short, artists and audiences alike love ActivZone for its friendly vibe and versatility. It’s not just a blank hall – it’s an established part of Glenfield life and Auckland’s skating scene (kidslink.co.nz ) (www.aucklandleisure.co.nz ).
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: ActivZone is a ground-level, wheelchair-friendly facility. The entrance, main rink area and restrooms are step-free. As part of an Auckland Council sports centre, it is compliant with NZ accessibility standards (wide doors, handrails). If you or someone in your group has mobility needs, you can generally navigate around the venue easily. Visitors with disabilities should mention any assistance needs at reception.
What to Bring/Not Bring: Bring socks (required for roller skate hire), comfy clothing and a water bottle. Wear layers in case the rink is chilly, but avoid long scarves or jewelry that could snag. Helmets are mandatory – you can bring your own or rent one for $2 (www.aucklandleisure.co.nz ). Skate hire is available on site, but if you have your own skates, by all means use them. You may bring your mobile phone or camera to take pictures (common courtesy: no flash during skating), but leave large valuables at home. Don’t wear street shoes on the rink. The venue provides bin and recycling facilities; help keep the space tidy. Outside food is not needed, but picnics can be enjoyed in the party room. Smoking and vaping are not allowed inside; an outdoor area is provided for smokers.
FAQs & Common Issues: Often people underestimate how tired they’ll be from skating – take breaks on the sidelines. Some newbies forget to change into socks first, so do that before skates. Tickets: remember to book ahead for popular events. Arrive 10–15 minutes early to sign in and get ready. Because drinks are available in the café, bring cash or a card (the café accepts EFTPOS) if you want snacks. For families, note that there are special kids-only times and family disco sessions, so neighborhoods and ages are separated as needed. Check the schedule online before heading out – on busy days the skate floor can reach capacity, and sessions may start/end promptly.
Policies: ActivZone operates under Auckland Council leisure policies. There is no strict dress code (casual sporty-wear is fine) and no bag policy beyond normal security checks. Photography for personal use is allowed (post your memories on “Instagram” but no commercial photo shoots without permission). There are no rigid age limits except where posted (some disco nights or classes are for teens/adults only). Children under 5 skate free with paying adult at all times. Profanity or rowdy behavior is discouraged – staff aim to keep it safe and family-friendly. If you’re coming to watch and not skate, remember entry is free. Finally, note that as an indoor venue, rain or cold weather outside will not affect your event – carriage coming by road is the only concern.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of ActivZone Indoor Sports Arena?
The main skating arena has room for about 219 people at once (www.aucklandleisure.co.nz ). This is the crush capacity for skaters and spectators on the floor (the fenced rink area). In addition, there’s a small party room (holds ~25 people) and a meeting room (~30). Since seating is informal, the listed numbers assume people standing/skating. For safety the centre limits attendance to that capacity each session.
What kinds of events are held at ActivZone?
ActivZone hosts a variety of roller sports and community events. Regular offerings include open skate sessions, roller disco nights (often themed), and kids’ learn-to-skate classes. They also run school-holiday skate camps and birthday party packages. Additionally, sports teams like the North Shore Vipers (inline hockey) and local table tennis and roller derby clubs use the space for games and practice (www.aucklandleisure.co.nz ) (www.aucklandleisure.co.nz ). Special events are often fundraising or holiday disco parties, giving the venue a diverse calendar.
How do I buy tickets and what are the prices?
Tickets and session passes are sold directly through the venue (Auckland Council’s leisure centre system). You can book online on the council website or pay at reception upon arrival. Casual skate sessions cost around NZ$9.10 for adults and $7.50 for children (www.aucklandleisure.co.nz ), with skate hire an extra $4.80. Family passes and 10-visit passes offer discounts. The Friday Night Disco is $8.60 including skate hire (www.aucklandleisure.co.nz ). No third-party ticket agencies are used. At-the-door entry is generally available if the session isn’t sold out, but we strongly recommend booking ahead for popular events to guarantee a spot.
When should I arrive and can I buy tickets at the door?
It’s best to arrive at least 10–15 minutes before your skating session or event starts. This allows time to park, check in at reception, and change into skates. Some special events (themed discos, camps) can sell out weeks early, so early booking is advised. For regular open skate sessions, there is usually some capacity, so door sales are possible, but they can reach capacity on busy Friday nights or school holidays. Advance online booking or calling ahead is the safest way to ensure entry.
Does ActivZone have formal seating or is it general admission?
ActivZone is general admission. There are no fixed theater seats; everyone stands around the rink or skates on it. Spectators and parents can stand by the perimeter or sit at a few tables near the café. For skating events, the “front row” is simply on-skates on the floor. If you don’t skate, you can watch for free from the sidelines (no spectator charge (www.aucklandleisure.co.nz )). A small elevated area near the entrance serves as a viewing spot. The layout is intentionally open so skaters can circulate freely.
Are there VIP or reserved seats?
No, there are no official VIP seats. All tickets are general admission. However, groups can book the private party room (up to 25 people) for events (www.aucklandleisure.co.nz ), which gives a dedicated area for your party but is separate from the general rink space. Other than that, any special viewing spot is first-come. Staff can sometimes accommodate requests for a designated space by the wall if you have mobility issues.
What is the address and how do I get there by public transport?
The address is 30 Downing Street, Glenfield, Auckland (www.aucklandleisure.co.nz ). By bus, the closest stop is “Downing Street Reserve” (on Downing itself), just a 1-minute walk away (moovitapp.com ). Bus routes 95B/95C (from the city via Constellation), 926, 939 and others all serve Glenfield Mall/Downing Street. From Britomart or Takapuna, you’d take a bus that goes via Glenfield Road and hop off at Downing St. There is no train to Glenfield. For driving, it’s near the intersection of Glenfield Road and Downing St. Plenty of street parking surrounds the centre (kidslink.co.nz ) (mostly free or metered).
Is there parking at ActivZone?
Yes. ActivZone has ample on-street parking nearby (kidslink.co.nz ). You can usually park on Downing Street itself or side streets within a few minutes’ walk. The Glenfield Pool and Leisure Centre’s parking area is shared, and there are two bus stops right opposite the entrance (on Downing St). Parking in Glenfield is sometimes free on weekends, but check local signs on the day. There is no multilevel car park, but spaces are plentiful except on very busy evenings.
Can I bring my own skates and helmet?
Absolutely. If you own roller skates or inline skates, feel free to bring them. You’ll just pay the applicable session fee (plus a small fee if you hire a locker; lockers may be limited). For safety, helmets are required for all skaters (www.aucklandleisure.co.nz ), so bringing your own helmet is a good idea. If you don’t have one, ActivZone rents helmets at only $2 (www.aucklandleisure.co.nz ). The centre provides high-quality skates for hire (for kids up to US13 and adult sizes too) (www.aucklandleisure.co.nz ). Note: street shoes are not allowed on the rink, so change into skates or rental footwear before stepping on the floor.
Is the facility wheelchair accessible?
Yes, ActivZone is wheelchair accessible. The main skate area is on one level with ramp-free entry, and doorways are wide. There are accessible bathrooms in the facility. If someone in your party uses a wheelchair, access from the parking or drop-off point at Downing Street into the venue is smooth. Tables and areas outside the rink can accommodate a wheelchair user as well. However, note that the rink floor itself is a skating surface, so wheelchairs stay off that area. Inform staff ahead if you have any special needs.
What food and drink options are available at ActivZone?
An on-site café at ActivZone serves hot and cold snacks, coffee, cold drinks and light meals (kidslink.co.nz ). They offer kid-friendly fare like sandwiches, chips, and ice cream, as well as coffee and tea for adults. The café overlooks the rink so parents can watch while seated. Outside food is generally not needed, but you may eat at the party tables or café area. There is no full kitchen or bar, and alcohol is not served inside the rink area – it’s a family-oriented venue. The mall five minutes away has many more dining options if you need a full meal.
Is there a coat check or lockers?
ActivZone has very limited storage. There are a few plastic cubbies/lockers near reception (small fee) for valuables if needed, but these can go quickly on busy nights. Many visitors keep personal items in the party room or with them by the rink. It’s best to travel light. There’s no formal coat check service, so plan to carry your jacket or leave it with a friend at your table. In general, treat it like a gym: don’t bring big backpacks onto the floor.
Are there age or dress-code restrictions?
Most activities at ActivZone are all-ages (children, teens, families together) – it’s made for general public sessions. Specific adult-only events (notably some late-night roller discos) prohibit under-16s. Those will be labeled “R16” in schedule listings. There is no strict dress code: wear sporty or casual attire. Avoid skirts or long flowy clothing that could get caught in wheels. Footwear-wise, you’ll wear skates or change into the rubber-soled skate rentals. On cold days they might dim heating because the rink’s cool; bring a light jacket if you’re sitting around. Safe, athletic attire is best.
Can I take photos or record video inside?
Yes – casual photography and videography are allowed for personal use. Skaters often take fun photos of each other. Just be courteous: don’t use flash on the rink (it may distract others) and microphones/music rights issues prohibit commercial recordings without permission. If you plan to use professional equipment or film extensively, check with management first. Feel free to post your fun clips on social media! The vibe is casual, so as long as it’s not disruptive, capturing memories is fine.
