Playspace Design and Build
Kaikorai Primary School
Dunedin
A new welcoming play space.
Client:
Kaikorai Primary School
Location:
Dunedin
Kaikorai Primary School in Dunedin has been a part of the community for over 150 years. With 320 students and a recent campus rebuild, the school took the opportunity to rethink its outdoor spaces. The result? A new playground designed not just to play, but to connect people, inspire creativity, and make the most of the school’s unique environment.
A Vision with Roots in the Community
When Principal Beth Downie and her team began planning the rebuild, they quickly realised the importance of creating more space for play. “We knew we needed something that fit the environment here—something that felt part of the trees and hills around us,” Beth explained. This wasn’t just about adding equipment; it was about creating a space that worked for the students and the wider community.
The school wanted a natural, seamless design. To make it happen, they needed a partner who could turn their vision into reality. “We had the ideas, but we’re not playground designers,” said Beth. That’s where Creo came in.
Finding the Right Fit
Beth first came across Creo through one of their brochures. After looking into different companies and seeing Creo’s work, she knew they were the right team to take on the challenge. “We’ve got a tricky site, but Creo had the experience to bring the best out of it.”
From the start, the focus was on collaboration. Beth and the school board worked closely with Creo’s team to ensure the playground design reflected the school’s needs and values. “They really understood what we were after and made the process easy.”
A Playground That Stands Out
The new playground is a mix of fun and creativity, blending natural elements into the school’s landscape. Unlike the standard playgrounds seen elsewhere, Kaikorai’s design is unique. “It’s not plastic or metal; it feels special. I think we’re probably the only school in Dunedin with something like this,” said Beth.
“I’d love to see families here on the weekends, enjoying it together. It’s something everyone can be proud of.”
What the Students Think
For Kaikorai’s students, the playground has already become a favourite spot. Flynn, age 8, summed it up perfectly: “The flying fox is the best. It goes so fast—it’s just joy!” He also loves how different the new space feels. “You can climb and jump, and it’s not just slides you can’t climb up. It’s way more fun.”
The students’ excitement shows how much the playground has changed the way they play and connect. Flynn added, “It makes me feel really proud to be at Kaikorai.”
Pride in the Result
The project’s completion has been an emotional milestone for the school. Reflecting on the opening day, Beth shared, “I had a little tear in my eye. I’m so proud of what we’ve delivered as a school. It’s something truly special.”
Creating Joy That Spreads
The Kaikorai Primary School playground is more than just a play area. It’s a place for discovery, connection, and fun. By turning a challenging site into a welcoming space, the school has created something that will bring joy to students and the wider community for years to come. As Beth put it simply, “We’re chuffed.”
