Children of Whau will soon be spoilt for choice following the news that eight local playgrounds will receive $2.2 million worth of upgrades or refreshes this summer.
It is part of an ongoing programme of playground improvements in the area that will see old, tired playgrounds replaced or upgraded in the coming months.
Consultations on the concepts for most of the playgrounds have taken place, with work now set to begin on the projects in spring/summer.
Whau Local Board Chair, Kay Thomas is delighted with the plans.
“As one of the fastest growing areas in Auckland it is vital that we have the infrastructure and facilities that will cater for that population. Having access to good quality playgrounds for future generations will play a big role in people being able to enjoy their neighbourhoods.
“In the same way our communities need green space, they also need places that young children can enjoy, so this really is welcome news.
“During a time where we are stretched financially, the board is really pleased to have been able to work to find ways to fund the upgrades and refreshes. We can’t wait for these projects to get underway!”
Playground upgrades:
Chalmers Reserve, Avondale
The old playground was removed to construct the new shared path from New Lynn to Avondale, so a new playground will replace it.
It will integrate with the new shared path and existing facilities at the park.
Play facilities will be updated, including an increase in number of play items to cater for growth. New seating, bicycle parking, planting for shade will also be included.
Cost: $416,000
When: Summer 2022
Green Bay Domain
A refresh of the playground will upgrade and expand the existing playground area, focussing on providing play features for young people. The project will also improve the park by addressing the surface water issue, as well as providing additional seating and natural shade.
Cost: $360,000
When: Summer 2022
Temuka Garden, Blockhouse Bay
The playground refresh will realign the playspace to the pavement with level access to provide better accessibility. The new play equipment will provide a range of elements which caters for all age groups. Trees for shade will also be planted as part of the project.
Cost: $145,000
When: Summer 2022
Northall Park, New Lynn
The playground will be refreshed in its current footprint, but an alternative design approach will allow more play features in the limited space.
Fencing will be provided along the street to ensure separation from the road.
Cost: $165,000
When: Summer 2022
Te Kotuitanga, New Windsor
The development will expand the play space and garden area at the park, including a new rope climbing feature. It will cater for pre-schoolers through to school-age children, while the new seating and trees will improve the park for all users.
Cost: $127,000
When: Summer 2022
Tahurangi / Crum Park
The old playground is being refreshed with new play equipment including a rope tower and embankment slide. It will also include a new fitness area for adults, natural play trail and provide better accessibility provisions and equipment.
In addition, new seating, a picnic area, bicycle parking, drinking fountain, trees planted for shade will also be included in the project.
It is expected that this park will cater for pre-schoolers through to school-age children.
Cost: $550,000
When: Spring 2022
Eastdale Reserve, Avondale
The playground refresh will replace the current older facilities, and will include a slide, roundabout, swingset, climbing frame and other play equipment. The project is currently awaiting consent to move into construction phase.
Cost: $258,000
When: Summer 2022
Arthur Currey Reserve, New Windsor
The project is currently in design phase to refresh the current playground but is on course for works to be underway in the summer.
Cost: $210,000
When: Summer 2022
