When it comes to setting up a playground, the equipment you choose plays a very important role. The differences of selecting between locally built and imported playground equipment can be complicated, but understanding these differences is crucial.
After all, the right equipment can transform an ordinary playground into a magical space for children.
Locally Built Playground Equipment
When we mention locally built equipment, it refers to companies that use raw materials and expertise found in the same area. These pieces of equipment often incorporate local materials, showcasing unique design aesthetics that resonate with the community’s heritage and values.
Benefits
- Lead time: Locally built playground equipment offers a distinct advantage: quicker delivery. Projects stay on track without international shipping or customs delays, ensuring timely setups and easier adjustments.
- Cultural Resonance: Local companies can craft equipment that connects with the community and better tell a story. These pieces will add value to your space and ensure that your playground is engaging and fosters learning.
- Customization: Local companies offer the flexibility to tweak designs, ensuring they align perfectly with community needs. You can always improve your equipment design as time goes by without losing its meaning.
- Costs: Local playground companies can offer better pricing than overseas companies as they rely on local raw materials, and there is no need for long-distance shipping. Also they can create unique equipment that fits your budget.
- Maintenance: With local expertise around the corner, repairs and maintenance become a breeze.
Imported Playground Equipment
Imported playground equipment brings global designs to your doorstep. These pieces, usually sourced from Europe, introduce unique aesthetics influenced by international trends.
Benefits
- A World of Design: Imported playground equipment offers a range of styles and designs sourced from global trends.
This ensures that every playground can have a distinct and refreshing look, setting it apart from the usual and offering children a unique play experience.
- Economies of Scale: By leveraging mass production, manufacturers can produce high-quality playground equipment at reduced costs.
This efficiency in production means communities can access premium designs without stretching their budgets, ensuring value for money. However, their costs are still quite high due to shipping costs.
Check our range of playground equipment.
Challenges
- Environmental Concerns: Transporting playground equipment from overseas means longer lead times, which can have a higher carbon footprint.
This extended transportation process and potential differences in manufacturing standards can raise environmental sustainability questions.
- Cultural Fit: While imported equipment can be visually appealing, it might not always align with local cultural values or aesthetics.
There’s a risk that specific designs may not resonate or feel familiar to local children, impacting their engagement.
- Maintenance: When equipment is sourced from overseas, there can be challenges in maintenance.
Finding specific replacement parts or experts familiar with the design can be more difficult, potentially leading to more extended downtimes or higher repair costs.
Weighing the Options: Local vs. Imported
The equipment should foster a sense of belonging and community engagement, whether local or imported. Make sure it is inclusive and has maximum play value.
Sustainability
It’s essential to weigh the environmental footprints of both options. While local equipment might reduce carbon footprint, imported equipment can do more damage with international shipping.
Economic Considerations
While initial costs are a factor, consider the long-term community benefits, from job creation with local equipment to supporting local growth.
Safety and Compliance
Overseas-sourced equipment may not fit NZ standards, making compliance harder and more expensive. Local companies start with that in mind.
Making an Informed Decision
Choosing between locally built and imported playground equipment is more than a design decision. It’s about aligning with community values, considering environmental implications, and ensuring it fits into your budget.
Both options have benefits, but the key is evaluating their long-term impact on the community.
Read our portfolio below to get ideas for your next surfacing project. Or, if you are ready to take the next step, call us on 0800 000 334 or book a site visit.
