- Accessibility assessments of four Rodney parks highlights the need to make play spaces more inclusive for children and caregivers of all abilities.
- The assessments identify improvements needed in equipment, surfaces, signage, seating, and overall accessibility to ensure safe and welcoming environments.
- The council will use the insights from the assessments to help plan future projects and will aim to fix similar issues at other sites where possible.
Parks should be places where every child can laugh, explore, and play regardless of their abilities. Recent accessibility assessments in the Rodney Local Board area will help make that vision a reality.
Four local parks were reviewed with a focus on how well they cater to the needs of children and caregivers of all abilities. The findings, endorsed by the Rodney Local Board, shed light on key areas for improvement and will play a vital role in shaping more inclusive park spaces in the future.
Why accessibility matters
Parks are essential to community wellbeing, encouraging physical activity, social connection, and time spent in nature.
In the 2023 census, 6.1 per cent of Rodney’s residents identified as having a disability and an estimated one in five people in Auckland may experience difficulties accessing parks if they have not been designed for people with disabilities or access needs.
As Rodney continues to grow, it’s important that parks are inclusive and welcoming for people of all ages and abilities.
Head of Specialist Operations for Parks and Community Facilities Martin van Jaarsveld says, “Accessible design benefits everyone, disabled visitors, older adults, pregnant people, and anyone recovering from injury. That’s what Universal Design is all about creating spaces that are usable and welcoming for all.
“Accessibility is about more than just equipment. It includes the whole experience from finding information and getting to the park, to moving around safely and comfortably once you’re there.”
What was assessed
The study focused on Wellsford War Memorial Park, Shoesmith Reserve, Rautawhiri Park and Huapai Recreation Reserve.
Key features reviewed included:
- accessible paths and surfaces
- inclusive play equipment
- entry and exit points
- signage
- shaded areas
- seating (including mobility-friendly options)
The assessment was guided by established accessibility standards and considered a range of needs from mobility challenges to sensory sensitivities.
What needs improving
The report identified several ways to make playgrounds more inclusive:
- install play equipment that all children can use
- ensure ground surfaces meet safety and accessibility standards
- regrade or smooth paths for easier access
- add shaded areas to keep equipment cool
- improve signage with images and emergency contact details
- increase seating near play areas and along pathways, with accessible seating options.
What happens next
While the local board’s endorsement doesn't automatically trigger upgrades, it marks an important first step.
The council will use the insights from the assessments to help plan future projects and will aim to fix similar issues at other sites where possible.
You can view the four park accessibility assessments (see Item 18 in the July meeting agenda).
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