The upgrade process – from plans on paper to diggers and dirt
It was a collaborative process working with the local community to get feedback from the early stages of concept design, right through to the final plans. We sent out a letter drop, held local drop-in sessions, took submissions through a survey, and noted feedback coming in through social media.
“Whether we’re simply refreshing or fully upgrading a play area, community feedback is a crucial part of the process,” Council Play Spaces Specialist Matthew Beres says.
“Through this, we’re able to understand the unique needs of each community and sometimes where we might have missed something or can do better.”
Accessibility is an important focus for the Play Spaces team as they work through the busy programme of upgrades, and the newly refreshed Karori Park is a great example of this.
Matthew says it has been designed with accessibility front of mind.
“We have purposefully chosen safety surfaces to make access to equipment easier and installed some specific pieces such as the inclusive swing seat and carousal, as well as the accessible basket swing.”
He says Wellington City Council considers accessibility for both users and their carers, by researching what is happening in the industry, taking to advocates, users and carers, and referencing the framework outlined in the 2017 Play Spaces Policy.
Matthew says because each project is so different, our approach is to address this at the time of renewal for each site.
“We’d like to thank everyone who had input throughout the consultation process, it really determines the success of the project, and what we’ve got is a fantastic outcome for the community.”
There are many years of fun and memories to be had here for generations to come – we suggest you pack a picnic, grab the kids and head over to check it out!