Unlocking wild play potential in Pōneke

Pōneke is a treasure trove of playful possibilities, from rolling hills and reserves to curious coastlines. Becky Winton, Muddy Toes Play Group facilitator, believes it takes very little to create the conditions for a great play space.  

“When I think of the perfect outdoor play space, there is always safe access to water, moveable parts (think rocks, logs, sticks, shells) and lots of space!” 

Wellington City Council Urban Ecology Manager Daniella Biagio is well travelled but still believes Pōneke is the best place in the world to raise her kids because the city is teaming with biodiversity and an expensive network of nature reserves.  

“We get to have it all. From hiking in Khandallah Park in the morning to enjoying free play at the beach by evening. My kids walk barefoot in the grass, climb trees and swim in the ocean – all free of serious threats like spiders or snakes."

Peta McMillan, Wellington City Council's Play Advocate, highlights the importance of play at all ages and believes everyone should take more time to discover it.  

“Some might think play stops as we grow up, however it usually transfers into gaming, arts, crafts, sports, and recreation. Losing touch with our sense of play can have detrimental effects on our wellbeing. Adults need to reconnect with nature and their happy place, even in the workplace. 

“Many people believe that play is confined to formal play areas. Yet Wellington’s parks, reserves, and beaches are perfect play spaces in disguise, filled with biodiversity, sounds, textures and secret spaces waiting to be found. In our inner city, I think about our beaches, city parks, murals, sculptures, curious alleyways and climbing trees — all perfect for inviting playful moments.” 

Peta observes that many tamariki miss out on outdoor experiences because adults hesitate to venture into nature.  

“Sometimes, it's the parents who need to reconnect with the outdoors. A little mud on our feet, some forest time or a bit of cold wind in our face can do wonders to ground our bodies and minds. 

“It is said that to experience the elements, is to connect with our ancestors and atua. In Te Ao Māori – tākaro (play) can be simply engaging with the elements, like listening to trees creak in wild weather with Tawhirimātea (atua of wind), messy play with Pāpātuānuku (atua of the land), rock pooling with Tangaroa (atua of the ocean). Our history is steeped in connections to te taiao – so it makes sense to help our kids get out there every day to experience their world.” 

Rachel Prior from nature school Everyone Out is an advocate for the power of play for tamariki.  

“It’s easy to overlook the simple joys nature has to offer when we’re so busy. As someone who observes tamariki outdoors every day - I’ve seen firsthand the impact that outdoor play has on kids’ development. Our natural spaces are not just a backdrop for play; they’re an essential part of growing up, and for some, an essential part of connecting with their whakapapa.” 
 
Wellington City Council celebrates play initiatives such as Play Week and encouraging tamariki to engage with their surroundings, ensuring they grow into responsible, creative, and resilient kaitaiki (stewards) of our city. 

We support everyone to get out there and explore our wild spaces. Play isn’t just for kids—it’s good for us all! Get some inspiration on our website.