‘Fantastical’ playground coming
Ōmokoroa is to get a new destination playground following approval of the $1.04 million development to replace the existing outdated playground on the Domain foreshore.
Western Bay of Plenty District Council’s Policy Committee has approved the development which will be part of a total revamp of the surrounding Ōmokoroa Domain and Esplanade, in partnership with the community and local tangata whenua Pirirākau hapū.
The new playground, which will include swings, trampolines, tunnels, climbing structures and a hamster wheel, is the result of an extensive 18month community engagement period with tangata whenua, representatives of the elderly, health and disability communities, local businesses and five local schools within Pirirākau’s rohe - Ōmokoroa No 1, Ōmokoroa Point, Pahoia, Whakamārama and Te Puna.
School involvement was crucial for the final concept plan as pupils took part in modelling their creations of what they envisioned in the playground. These artworks were publicly displayed at an open day in Ōmokoroa last year. One child coined the word ‘fantastical’ to reflect their vision.
Council’s Scott Parker says the playground is an exciting project that, when completed, will create a new recreation experience for all visitors.
“It’s essential to create a playground reflective of all community voices and make sure we have the social spaces to let people connect with their neighbourhood, their whānau and each other.
“The project team valued the input and great enthusiasm of the local school children, and we did our best to reflect their ideas in the final concept design.”
The new playground will also see time called on two old family favourites – the tractor and lullaby swing. The two nostalgic pieces of equipment attracted considerable community sentiment through the public consultation phase, with concern about their proposed removal and replacement.
However, due to safety concerns, solutions to replace the lullaby with a modern equivalent and retire the tractor and return it to its original owner have been discussed with the Ōmokoroa Community Board, who support the final concept design.
Scott says while the price tag of the playground project is high in comparison to other playgrounds across the District, it is not just about replacing playground equipment.
“Given its location, it is actually about rejuvenating the main entrance into the Domain as well as replacing the very tired old playground with a new fit-forpurpose play space, appropriate to the needs of a growing community.
“Ōmokoroa Domain is a recreation focal point for the Ōmokoroa community and visitors throughout the year, and it justifies an appropriate level of investment.
“We’re also working with Pirirākau to ensure the cultural elements of the design is reflected in the build.”
The playground is part of the broader Ōmokoroa Domain Concept Plan which includes several other future upgrades in addition to the playground.
Construction is expected to start in March and be completed by June. The cost is funded through existing asset renewal funding and capital works funding.