AusLeisure

Dunedin City Council has advised it is to begin work on a major overhaul of the Dunedin Botanic Garden playground.

Marking the largest overhaul of the area since the existing playground was opened in 1985, the upgrade is scheduled to begin on 22nd July, the start of term three, with the intention to open in time for the following school holidays, which begin on 28th September.

The new playground will continue to cater to younger users, but a range of new structures expands play opportunities for both younger and older children – and offers a more inclusive, accessible experience.

The overall design incorporates wider spaces to enable a more inclusive environment and features upgraded safety provisions, new soft-fall surfacing, new seating and an improved picnic area.

The playground includes:

• a five-metre tower that features two tube slides, as well as an accessible stainless steel slide
• a large wooden climbing structure with commando nets to allow for a range of ages and experience
• a recessed, wheelchair-friendly trampoline + 2 other trampolines
• accessible roundabout
• a series of swings
• “jumping jacks” (balance-challenging steps)

The DCC worked with Maori through their consultancy arm Aukaha to develop playground designs inspired by the legend of Mahuika and Māui, a well-known narrative that showcases Māui’s playfulness and trickery.

Illustrations of native flora and fauna that inhabit the forest floor specific to the Otago region will be embedded in the playground, weaving through the narrative of how Māui brought fire to the world.

Jeanette Wikaira, General Manager Arts, Culture and Recreation noted “This is a significant rejuvenation of an area that has brought much joy to youngsters, parents and others.

The current playground equipment will be removed, reassessed based on safety considerations and potentially refurbished to be used elsewhere in the city.

“The existing playground is almost 40 years old, and was donated by Perpetual Trust (now Perpetual Guardian) in the mid-1980s.

“When considering a renewal of the soft-fall surface, we identified that the playground was due for renewal, too. The scope of the project was extended when Botanic Garden staff suggested utilising some space created from the loss of a tree (in early 2023) near the existing playground.

“This change to scope also prompted a wider reassessment, including vehicle movements around the playground and bandstand. We believe changes to vehicle paths will also make the area both safer and more enjoyable for visitors.”

Dunedin City Council staff have visited schools in the North Dunedin area to share details about the project.

Wikaira enthused “It’s exciting to imagine the energy and enjoyment the new playground will bring once it’s up and running.”

The Dunedin City Council has worked closely with the Friends of the Dunedin Botanic Garden and would like to acknowledge the generous contribution they have made to the cost of this popular community playground.

Sam Moncur, President of the Friends of the Dunedin Botanic Garden shared “we are excited to support this project, which represents a significant rejuvenation of a much-loved and much-used area.

“We hope many children, both young and older, enjoy the new playground.”

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