Whale flukes, maunga, slides, stairways, and a waterspout: a myriad of play features and equipment have transformed Te Akau ki Papamoa School’s junior and senior playgrounds into an area of fun, challenge, learning, and heritage combined.

Just as the pictorial pepeha/mural within the school hall depicts the cultural context of each student’s learning journey, the new play spaces recognise the importance of pakiwaitara/legend through representations of sea and land. Natural timbers support the climbing and balancing structures; bright colours stand out against shade-giving trees; and sand play for juniors complements the more challenging activities for seniors.

The school’s vision is to develop lifelong learners who demonstrate confidence, creativity and problem-solving: Playground Creations have provided an ideal outdoor space for nurturing all of those qualities.