Revamping – Tōtara Park playground

The playground equipment at Tōtara Park playground, Ōtaki, is reaching the end of its safe playing life, so we're revamping it. Over five weeks in August/September 2023, we heard from you about how you use this space now and your future aspirations for this area.

Your playground, your say

Over five weeks in August/September 2023, we listened, learnt, and gathered insights on how you enjoy this playground haven and what future aspirations you hold for this splendid space. Whether you're a parent, a caregiver, or a young adventurer, your voice matters.

Here's how you cast your ideas into the playground mix:

• Online Survey: Our online survey was quick and easy.
• At the park survey: You could swing by Tōtara Park playground, grab a survey form, and drop your completed form into the designated box right there.
• Stroll and Speak: You came along to our park open days, met our passionate team, and chatted about your playground aspirations.

We aim to create playgrounds that are accessible, fun, varied and cater for a wide range of abilities. Our goal is to design interesting playgrounds that meet the needs of both children and their caregivers.

Here is a summary of what we heard:

• Families enjoy the range of equipment and that under 5s can play here.
• Some tamariki walk, cycle or scoot here, others are driven to specifically to play at this playground.
• Favourite pieces of equipment include the:
  • covered slide
  • swings
  • variety of equipment.

What else we're hearing

• Some people like the idea of a fenced playground to support younger tamariki and those with extra needs.
• Some do not like the idea of closing the playground off.
• The climbing equipment is quite high and not easily reachable.
• Keeping a focus on play equipment for under 5s is important as there are limited play opportunities for this age group in Ōtaki.
• The park currently is not accessible due to the need to step up into the play area. Making the playground accessible for tamariki and carers needs to be a priority in the renewal planning.
• Shade and picnic tables for a place to rest and eat is important in the new space.
• People who know about the playground enjoy the space, but not everyone knows it is here.

Next steps

We will be reaching out to playground providers and will connect with people who are interested in being part of the focus group to meet and talk through plans and sense check the details of the playground.

Questions?

We regularly get asked questions about our playground upgrades, and we know they can be a hot topic.

• Read our frequently asked questions.

If you have a question that we haven't covered, you can get in touch by calling us, 0800 486 486 or emailing playgrounds@kapiticoast.govt.nz.

Let's shape the future of Tōtara Park playground, together! Your journey with us begins now.