Playground swings into action
Hundreds of children donned gumboots and jackets to road-test Avalon’s new $3.7 million playground for the official opening on Sunday.
At times, though, it was hard to tell whether it was the children or the adults that were having the most fun.
Tunnels, slides, climbing and abseiling walls, swings, trampolines and rope bridges are among the elements included in the park’s unique design.
The playground also boasts a water play area and artificial stream, as well as a custom-made structure called the Helix, which appears to crawl across the playground in a series of spirals
The unveiling was dubbed a resounding success by Hutt City Council’s parks manager, Bruce Hodgins.
The weather played its part, with early showers replaced by fine sunny weather.
Mother Leigh-Anne McMahon felt the finished product was far more attractive than the park’s predecessor.
‘‘There’s just a lot more to do and it does look safer than the stuff we used to have when we were kids.
‘‘I think people could come here and spend the whole day here, because it’s got the water activities as well.’’
Seven-year-old Riley Donoghue also enjoyed the flying fox.
His mother, Shelley Donoghue, described the playground as ‘‘absolutely fantastic’’.
‘‘There’s different types of play, there’s tactile play, sensory play ... there’s just so much for [the children] to play and do.’’
Facebook commentators such as Leann Worrall were overwhelmingly positive.
‘‘We thought it was fantastic … Can’t wait for the rest of the development around the duck pond. Great to see so many smiles and absolute joy on kids’ faces. Hope it will be looked after and no-one vandalises it.’’