Project: Thompson Street
Client: Waipa District Council

The Ground
Tired, dilapidated, scruffy – and much loved: that was the state of Leamington’s popular and long-established neighbourhood playground at the start of 2019.

Fast forward to the end of 2021 and the community celebrated the opening of a completely refurbished site, thanks to Waipa District Council responding to local community pleas for playground renewal.

The Creation
Residents and Council alike wanted this to be a space where families could come together and enjoy themselves, so it includes features that appeal to both parents and children.

Mansergh Graham Landscape Architects were engaged to redesign the old playground, incorporating the existing flying fox and seesaw.

Playground Creations implemented the design with extensive use of natural materials. Stepping logs, stilt logs and recycled balance logs create a forest of poles that weave through the site for the children to explore, leading them between the various pieces of equipment and activities. The double bay swing with basket and toddler swing, a triple rail slide, a timber play tower and a net climber cater for children of all ages.

A loop track cuts through the playground with smooth curves and roll over mounds, for scooters and skateboards, adding another dynamic layer of movement to the space. 

The playground refurbishment also involves plans for a community orchard with fruit trees including feijoa and plum. 

The Play
This project creates a fun play and family space that encourages movement and path finding. Playground Creations supplied and installed the playground equipment and completed the landscaping. We enjoyed creating this exciting play space that provides a good variety of play options for all ages and abilities.