Playground trend spreads across Waikato
The upgrade of a popular playground in a Waikato town is only a relatively small example of a major international trend.
Located on Thompson St in Leamington, on the opposite side of the Waikato River to Cambridge township, the little playground is getting some much needed TLC.
It’s part of a playground renaissance that is taking place throughout the Waikato region, with destination playgrounds being built and smaller local parks receiving fresh playground equipment.
‘‘Play in itself is continually changing, and there are lots of overseas trends that filter through to New Zealand,’’ Waipa District Council community services manager Sally Sheedy said.
‘‘Our communities are generally passionate about play and playgrounds, which has supported the recent developments of playgrounds in the district.
‘‘Pirongia for example was initially led by the community requesting a playground for that community.’’
Hamilton City Council has been something of a playground pioneer in the Waikato, having taken the cues from community feedback.
‘‘The council made a conscious decision several years ago to improve the quality our play spaces across the city,’’ Hamilton’s parks and recreation manager Maria Barrie said.
Recently, a destination playground was opened in Tamahere, which is located just outside of Cambridge and Hamilton, but is in the Waikato district.
‘‘The Tamahere community were very involved in the creation of their playground.
‘‘This buy-in from the community along with their agreement to pay an additional targeted rate meant we were able to deliver a better playground than what had originally been planned and budgeted for.