As the days get longer and the sun shines brighter, now’s the perfect time to shake off winter stiffness and get moving.
So, what’s trending in fitness this season? You’ve probably heard about pickleball and padel taking the world by storm. But at the same time, there’s an increased focus on the mindful enjoyment of nature – reflecting that the simplest pleasures are often the healthiest. Whether you’re just starting out or already on your fitness journey, there’s something for everyone this summer around the bays. From high-energy group classes to gentle walking groups, our area offers fantastic options to suit every age, ability, and budget.
East Coast Bays Leisure Centre
Located at 12 Bute Road in Browns Bay, this friendly and community-focused centre is your one-stop destination for fitness this summer (and all year round). Pickleball is the newest sensation, and the Leisure Centre boasts four indoor wood courts with portable nets. This fun activity combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, using solid paddles to hit a hollow plastic ball over a net. The popularity of pickleball isn’t just a fad…It’s perfect for those finding tennis courts a bit too big or badminton shuttles a little too high. It’s also brilliant for people recovering from injuries and works wonderfully as a family game for players of different ages, heights, and abilities. For basketball enthusiasts, the centre offers adult, youth, and mini leagues, plus casual drop-in games that welcome players of all skill levels. The Fitness Centre includes everything you need to get and stay fit. Trained fitness professionals will show you how to maximise the modern cardio and resistance machines, free weights, and stretch areas, helping you fast-track your fitness goals.
Group fitness classes cater to every preference. BODYBALANCE® blends yoga, Tai Chi, and Pilates with 10 minutes of relaxation and meditation, leaving you feeling centred and calm. BODYPUMP® is the original barbell class that strengthens your entire body using squats, presses, lifts, and curls set to great music. LES MILLS DANCE offers high-energy workouts inspired by global dance genres. For those seeking gentler options, SeniorFIT provides resistance and cardio training without floor movements, ideal for older adults with reasonable mobility. FlexiFIT guides you through effective stretches to relieve tension and improve flexibility, suitable for all ages. Visit aucklandleisure.co.nz/locations/east-coast-bays-leisure-centre for timetables, prices, and full class descriptions.
The Heart of The Bays
Our beloved community centre at 2 Glen Road offers health and wellness activities at little to no cost. With fitness options from Tai Chi to table tennis and much more, there really is something for everyone. The Heart of the Bays Walking Group meets weekly for walks around Browns Bay, starting and finishing at the centre with tea and coffee provided afterwards. It’s a perfect way to combine gentle exercise with social connection. For something truly unique, try Laughter Yoga on Saturday mornings at 9am. This exercise programme combines laughter with yoga breathing techniques, bringing more oxygen to your body and brain. The result? Increased energy, reduced stress, a stronger immune system, and a more positive mindset. Just a gold coin donation gets you laughing your way to better health. Visit hotb.co.nz to discover the full range of activities on offer.
Indoor Padel NZ
Padel combines the best elements of tennis, squash, and badminton in an enclosed space slightly smaller than a regular tennis court. Most commonly played in doubles, it’s an exciting sport that’s easy to learn but challenging to master.
Located at 50 Anzac Road in Browns Bay, Indoor Padel is home to Auckland’s first indoor padel court. This fully automated, 24/7 facility offers an excellent playing experience, rain or shine. Check out indoorpadel.co.nz for booking and more information.
Mairangi Bay Tennis Club
The North Shore’s largest tennis club features nine artificial grass courts, all with LED floodlights for year-round play. Social players can easily connect by joining Wednesday/Friday morning sessions or Wednesday night games. With 50+ senior and junior interclub teams ranging from competitive to social, plus a strong mid-week ladies following, there’s a place for everyone. Their junior programme offers 16 free coaching sessions for all junior members in Terms 1 and 4 each year, making it perfect for families wanting to get active together. Find them at 11/2 Ramsgate Terrace, Mairangi Bay, or visit clubspark.kiwi/mairangibaytennis.
Your summer starts here
We’re so fortunate to live in the East Coast Bays, with access to stunning natural beauty and exceptional community resources. Our area offers endless opportunities to embrace a healthier, more active lifestyle. So what are you waiting for? Summer’s calling, and your fitness journey is just around the corner. Get out there and discover everything our bays have to offer!
