The importance of colour in playgrounds

When you first see a playground, the colours catch your eye. But these colours do more than make the space pretty—they play a crucial role in a child’s growth, mental well-being, and how the playground fits into its surroundings.

Let’s explore why the colour choice in playground design is so important and deserves your careful thought.

Colours at play

Colours do more than brighten up a playground; they’re like a quiet teacher for kids. The right colours can influence children’s learning and how they connect with those lessons.

When you pick the colours for a playground, you’re helping kids make sense of their world.

The importance of each colour

Every colour affects us in its own way, which is something to think about when you’re designing a place for kids to learn and play:

  • Red: It’s energetic and can spark creativity, but too much might be too intense for some kids.
  • Blue: It’s the colour of calm, making a busy playground feel like a peaceful spot, especially on hot days.
  • Yellow: It’s all about happiness and can help keep kids focused and full of creative ideas.
  • Orange: If you want an area full of energy and fun, orange is your colour.
  • Green: It reminds us of nature and gives a peaceful, refreshing feeling.
  • Purple: It’s calming and can help kids feel balanced and at ease.
  • Brown: It gives a sense of strength and stability, but it’s best to keep things interesting when mixed with brighter colours.
  • Off-White: It’s soft on the eyes and good for concentration without the risk of overstimulation that comes with brighter colours.

A Balanced Palette

Can a playground have too much colour? Yes, it can. Studies have found that too many colours or complex patterns can be overwhelming and might even make some kids anxious.

It’s essential to strike a balance right for the play area and the kids who use it. Balancing the colours in your space can foster engaging learning and avoid sensorial issues.

Check out our surface colour mixer.

Big areas can use natural elements for a childcare playground.

Colours and shapes together

When you combine colours with shapes, you do more than make the playground look nice. You create an even better place for learning. This combo helps kids recognise and learn about different shapes and colours while they play.

The Full Picture

Choosing the right colours for a playground is much more than style. It’s a big part of how kids develop their brains, handle feelings, and stay safe.

Colours can also encourage kids to play together and feel like they belong, which is important for any community space.

Why We Love Colorful Playgrounds

Choosing colours for playgrounds isn’t just about making something look good. It’s about designing a place that helps kids learn, get involved, and have fun. Colours are key—they turn a simple play area into a place full of life and excitement.

Ready to take the next step? Feel free to give us a call on 0800 000 334 or book an ideas session below.

Cass Square Playground

Cass Square Playground

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The cool little playground.

Client:
Westland District Council
Location:
Hokitika
Circa budget:
$900,000

Cass Square Playground in Hokitika is a playground that truly stands out, thanks to the collaboration between Creo and the Westland District Council.

Creo carried the playspace design and build from start to finish, ensuring the entire process was smooth and stress-free for the Council and the community.

The result is a vibrant, inclusive playground that honours Hokitika’s rich cultural and natural heritage, designed for everyone to enjoy.

A journey of Maori and Colonial history
connected in this playspace

From Vision to Reality

 The Westland District Council envisioned a destination playground for locals and visitors. The challenge was creating a playspace that felt like a true community reflection. From the initial concept to the final design, the Council was involved every step of the way, ensuring that the playground met the needs and desires of Hokitika’s residents.

A Design Rooted in Hokitika 

Drawing inspiration from Hokitika’s wild beauty and cultural heritage, the design evolved into a natural and inviting space. The playground features wooden structures, dynamic flooring, and custom elements like the clock tower climber and waka, which celebrate local Māori heritage, which is represented in different parts of this great playspace. 

Accessibility was a key focus, as we wanted to ensure that the playground would be welcoming and enjoyable for everyone, regardless of their abilities.

Inclusive Play for Everyone

Cass Square Playground was designed to be a place where everyone can play, regardless of their abilities:

  • Vision/Hearing: The playground’s design includes high-contrast colours and games, making navigating easier for those with visual impairments. An interactive panel featuring sign language and braille ensures that everyone can engage with the space.
  • For Mobility: The playground includes wheelchair-accessible equipment such as the waka, carousel, and see-saw. The ground level of the tower is accessible, with interactive panels and communication tubes connecting different levels, ensuring everyone can join in the fun. Wide gates and smooth surfaces ensure easy access throughout the playground.

Unique Features

  • Clock Tower: This feature is a playful yet functional centrepiece inspired by Hokitika’s historic clock tower. Children can climb, slide, and explore, with elements like climbing walls, and talk tubes, making the tower fun and interactive.
  • Surface Design: The playground’s surface was designed to be more than just safe—it’s engaging and visually striking, with different textures and colours reflecting Hokitika’s natural landscape. High-contrast zones make the playground accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
  • Custom Equipment: From the flying fox to the themed shelters, each piece of equipment was crafted to resonate with Hokitika’s local culture and the community’s needs.
Inclusive Play for Everyone
 
As the project came together, the Council and community saw their vision become reality. The playground now serves as a welcoming space for all, with features like benches, accessible tables, and a communication board ensuring comfort and inclusivity. It’s a place where the community can gather, explore, and play together.

Clock Tower – A Tribute to Hokitika’s Heritage

The clock tower at Cass Square Playground is the heart of the space, designed to honour Hokitika’s rich history while providing endless fun for children. Inspired by the town’s iconic clock tower, this bespoke structure invites kids to explore, climb, and play in a way that connects them to the local heritage.

Key Features:

  • Interactive Design: The clock tower climber is designed for adventure. Children can scale climbing walls, slide down, and communicate with friends using talk tubes connecting different tower levels. Not to mention the hidden games in there. 
  • Cultural Connection: This it’s a tribute to Hokitika’s historic clock tower. By incorporating this local landmark into the playground, children engage with an essential piece of their town’s history, fostering a sense of place and belonging.
  • Locally Crafted: The clock tower was designed and manufactured in Creo’s local workshop, keeping the project rooted in New Zealand craftsmanship. Using local resources and expertise, the tower reflects the community’s heritage and supports local industry.
  • Accessibility: The tower’s ground level is fully accessible, featuring interactive panels that ensure children of all abilities can join in the fun. From playing inside the clock face to exploring the various features, the design is inclusive, making sure everyone can enjoy this central attraction.

The clock tower perfectly blends history and play, making it a standout feature of Cass Square Playground. 

It serves as a landmark within the playground, drawing children and families to explore, imagine, and connect with Hokitika’spast while creating new memories.

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Common playground equipment issues and how to prevent them

If you want to know the common issues with playground equipment, you came to the right place. Playgrounds should be where fun never stops, but sometimes, equipment problems can get in the way.

To keep good times safe, knowing about these hiccups and how to avoid them is important. In this article, we will cover the common issues with playgrounds and how you can solve them.

The Right Fit for Your Playground

It’s a common issue to pick out playground equipment that doesn’t quite fit — too large for the area or too small for the community’s needs can lead to safety and usability issues.

Getting It Just Right

The trick is to talk with experts. Playground designers and builders look at the space you’ve got and start a collaborative journey with you—not too big, not too small, and just the fun your neighbourhood is looking for.

Making Playgrounds Last

The wrong materials can make playgrounds wear out fast or become unsafe when the weather hits hard. It is important to consider if your space might be prone to be too wet or even too hot.

By engaging with playground experts, they will be recommending materials that are durable, weather-resistant, and compliant with safety standards, ensuring the playground withstands the test of time and use.

Anticipating and Managing High Traffic

Playgrounds can be areas of high user engagement, mainly when designed with intent and meaning, which is excellent! If you don’t plan for many users playing day in and day out, things might break down sooner than you think.

Expert analysis includes estimating the level of use and selecting equipment designed for durability. This foresight is crucial for maintaining a safe and inviting playground environment over time.

See our full equipment range.

Compliance with Safety Standards

Playground safety isn’t just a bunch of rules—it’s about keeping kids out of harm’s way. Ignoring safety standards is a risk no one should take.

Regular inspections and adherence to safety protocols by experts are indispensable practices that ensure every playground component meets necessary safety benchmarks.

Expertise Makes Playgrounds Better

Addressing common playground equipment challenges is a task best overseen with expert knowledge. It’s about creating a space that endures daily play’s rigours without compromising safety or enjoyment.

With professional input, playgrounds can be more than play areas — they can be well-oiled machines for fun, growth, and community building.

Ready to take the next step? Feel free to give us a call on 0800 000 334 or book an ideas session below.

5 Signs you need a playground upgrade

Simple equipment can have great play value, kids can climb, and invent other games with it.

Think about your local playground. It’s more than swings and slides. It’s where friendships are made and adventures start. But playgrounds are about more than fun; they’re crucial for children’s growth and bringing communities closer.

As we learn more about how children play and grow, our playgrounds need to keep up, becoming places where every child feels welcome and eager to explore.

In this article, we will cover the main signs your playground needs an upgrade and why they are vital signs you need to be aware of.

#1 Safety

Playgrounds in 2023 are all about safety. And when we mention safety, it is not the same as managed risk. It is the actual safe of equipment or surfaces that users engage with. That old metal slide? It might have seen better days. Chipped paint, rust, and wobbly steps are more than eyesores—they’re hazards.

Safety surfacing is another big deal. It’s not just about cushioning falls; it’s about matching the surfacing needs to the critical fall height, too.

#2 Inclusivity

Imagine a playground where every child, no matter their ability, can join in the fun. That’s inclusivity, and it’s at the heart of modern play spaces.

Maybe your school or neighbourhood has changed, or some children can’t enjoy the playground like others.

Upgrading to an inclusive design isn’t just nice—it’s necessary. It’s about creating an environment where users of all ages and abilities can enjoy playtime and learning, fostering a better community.

Read more: Lorna Irene Playground Case Study

Inclusive Playgrounds Principles

Inclusive Playground SeeSaw
Lorna Irene, Inclusive Playground Upgrade. 2023 Playground of the Year.

#3 Playground Equipment

Playground designs are in the middle of a major makeover. It’s out with the old and in with the new—think bright colours, eco-friendly materials, and equipment that makes kids think while they play.

When a playground looks like something from a storybook, it invites users to invent their own stories, sparking growth and learning.

If your playground’s more ‘ho-hum’ than ‘wow’, it’s time for an upgrade that will bring back the buzz.

See our full equipment range.

Marae Modular Play Equipment Tower at Whitikau Reserve Playground
Whitikau Reserve, Opotiki District Council. A community story through play.

#4 User Engagement

Let’s face it: a quiet playground is a sign something’s not quite right. Today’s play spaces are designed to pull children out of their homes and classrooms and into the sunshine, with climbing walls, music-making equipment, and games that get the whole neighbourhood involved.

 If your playground is lonely, consider an upgrade that will make it the heart of the community again. Drawing people to play and learn is key to improving your space. 

Consider play features that cater for different ages and equipment with more play value, and talk to the children and other community members to check what they want. That will increase user engagement on your upgrade.

Learn more: What is Play Value?

 

#5 Compliance

Rules for playgrounds aren’t just red tape; they’re there to keep kids safe and happy. As new play options become available, your playground must stay in the game.

From the suitable surfacing for your swings to ensuring the seesaw is up to code, keeping your playground compliant means keeping it open and fun for everyone.

Conclusion

Spotting the signs for a playground upgrade is essential: look for wear and tear, listen for laughter (or the lack of it), and make sure everyone can join in. Upgrading your playground isn’t just a quick fix—it’s an investment in your community’s health, happiness, and future.

With a modern, inclusive design, your new playground will be where memories are made for years to come.

Ready to take the next step? Feel free to give us a call on 0800 000 334 or book an ideas session below.

The ultimate monkey bars guide

Monkey bars are a traditional feature of playgrounds worldwide, offering a blend of fun and physical development for children.
This guide will take you through the various types of monkey bars and their unique benefits for childhood development.

Traditional Straight Monkey Bars

Traditional straight monkey bars are the classic playground staple. Made of wood or metal, these parallel bars challenge children to swing from one end to the other, building upper body strength and coordination.

Geometric Monkey Bars

Geometric monkey bars transform the climbing experience with various shapes, such as hexagons and diamonds. They provide a unique challenge that promotes problem-solving and enhances motor skills.

Wavy Monkey Bars

The undulating shape of wavy monkey bars adds a layer of difficulty and fun, encouraging children to adapt their movements and develop agility as they navigate the waves.

Wave Monkey Bars

Spiral Monkey Bars

Spiral monkey bars introduce a playful twist to the traditional format, encouraging children to engage in imaginative play while they climb, twist, and turn.

 

Check our full equipment range

Spiral monkey bars

Ladder Monkey Bars

Ladder monkey bars offer a versatile climbing experience, allowing children to navigate both horizontally and vertically, which can help develop a diverse set of muscles and movements.

Dome Climbers

Dome climbers, with their dome-shaped structures, invite children to climb from all angles, promoting spatial awareness and balance.

Integrated Monkey Bars

Integrated monkey bars are essential for larger playground structures, often linking different play areas and adding excitement to obstacle courses.

Pull-Up Bars

Pull-up bars, typically higher and aimed at adults, are a great addition to any playground, encouraging strength training and active lifestyles for all family members.

Floating Monkey Bars

Floating monkey bars add an element of unpredictability to the playground, swinging or floating to provide an extra challenge for those traversing them.

Ring Traverse Bars

Ring traverse bars replace traditional bars with rings, offering a fun, gymnastic-like experience that requires a combination of strength, coordination, and momentum.

Ninja Warrior Monkey Bars

Obstacle courses inspire these complex structures and provide a rigorous challenge that tests agility, strength, and endurance.

Adjustable Monkey Bars

Adjustable monkey bars can be tailored in height and width, making them perfect for accommodating different age groups and skill levels, from preschoolers to older children.

Indoor Monkey Bars

Designed for indoor environments, these monkey bars ensure that play and development can continue regardless of the weather, with materials safe for indoor use.

The benefits of Monkey Bars

Monkey bars are not just a source of entertainment; they are a critical tool for children’s development. They encourage kids to take risks and learn from their attempts, fostering resilience and confidence. As children navigate the bars, they also learn to form relationships with their peers, sharing experiences and supporting one another in their playful endeavours.

Through engaging with monkey bars, children develop upper body strength, enhance their gross motor skills, and improve hand-eye coordination. These physical skills are essential for children’s overall development and have been linked to academic success later in life.

In essence, monkey bars are more than just a playground component; they are a foundational element in the growth journey, providing lessons and skills that extend far beyond the playground.

Ready to take the next step? Feel free to give us a call on 0800 000 334 or book an ideas session below.

How much does a natural playground cost?

Natural playgrounds are growing in our urban spaces as the connection between human and nature bring enormous benefits for mental and physical health.

 If you are planning of starting a new project for your space, we’ll walk you through the essentials of creating a natural playground and the financial aspects from start to finish.

What is a Natural Playground?

Natural playgrounds, often called nature or green playgrounds, are more than just play areas. They’re spaces full of natural elements – logs, boulders, sand, water, and plants. It’s a “jungle” where play, learning, and nature converge.

These playgrounds are sensory havens, versatile and ever-evolving, ensuring each visit is unique. The advantages? They’re countless! From fostering open-ended play propping up physical and emotional growth, to nurturing creativity and encouraging risk-taking, the benefits are fantastic.

Natural Playground Design

Designing a natural playground is one of the most exciting parts of your journey. It’s where your idea starts to take shape. Key to this is understanding the landscape and the narrative you wish to tell. Whether it’s an adventurous setting or a soothing green oasis, the landscape dictates the story. 

But how does it affect the cost? Consider the playground’s size, the extent of landscaping, and the integration of equipment with the natural setting. These elements significantly influence the budget. Before starting the design phase, consider going over these questions:

  • Do I need accessible pathways?
  • What age group is the playground catering to?
  • How many children should the space accommodate?
  • Is there a need for additional greenery, or can the existing landscape suffice?

Typically, such playgrounds can range anywhere from $400-1000 per m2, contingent on the size and complexity of the design. 

Flying foxes can be custom built and you don't need to reuse playground equipment.

Natural Playground Equipment

The essence of a natural playground lies in its equipment. While rocks and boulders are staples, eco-friendly equipment elevates the experience. Robinia logs, for instance, can be manufactured into swing sets, obstacle courses, and even monkey bars. When selecting equipment, two pivotal aspects to consider are:

  1. The target age group.
  2. The desired complexity of the equipment range.

The cost range for natural playground equipment ranges from $5,000-70,000. Custom-designed pieces can command even higher prices.

Flying foxes can be custom built and you don't need to reuse playground equipment.

Natural Playground Surfacing

Eco-friendly options like wood chips, sand, pea gravel, or mulchset are not only safe but also blend seamlessly with the natural aesthetic especially if you’re aiming for an inclusive pathway that retains the natural vibe.

Conclusion

Investing in a natural playground goes beyond just setting up a play area. It highlights the genuine advantages for children, promotes active learning, and underscores the mental well-being derived from urban green spaces.

Ready to take the next step? Feel free to give us a call on 0800 000 334.

How to raise funds for your playground project

Getting your playground funding underway can be one of the most challenging tasks when starting a project. Having the space of your dreams can be time-consuming and costly.

The good thing is that New Zealand has many ways to raise funds for your playground, and we will cover them in this article.

1. Local Support

  • City: Local councils often have budgets to enhance public spaces, including schools and parks. By understanding their allocation process, you can identify potential funding opportunities.
  • Local Community Groups: These organisations occasionally offer grants for projects that benefit the local community. They can assist with specific costs or even equipment procurement.

2. National Support

  • National entities, from education departments to environmental agencies, sometimes introduce grants for projects that benefit the larger community. Staying informed about these can open significant funding channels.
    It is worth checking the guidelines for the Ministry of Education or other government agencies that can help you raise funds for your next playground project.
Teamwork and get funds for your playground project

3. Private Funders

  • Businesses: Both local businesses and bigger corporations can be helpful. They might provide financial support, sponsor parts of the project, or even volunteer services. You can secure the needed support if your project resonates with their values.
  • Individual Donors: Many philanthropic individuals are keen on contributing to projects that uplift the community or enhance educational spaces. Sharing your vision with them can lead to valuable partnerships.

4. Non-profit Organizations

  • NGOs can be potential allies, especially those focusing on education, community development, or green initiatives. Their expertise and connections can be invaluable in the funding journey. Usually, Not-for-profit organisations have relationships with other community partners that can support your playground project.

5. Community Fundraisers: Every Contribution Counts

  • Platforms like Kickstarter and traditional fundraising events can help gather funds. These methods also foster a sense of shared purpose and community involvement. Using online media for your project is valuable as social media is a public space where information is easily shared. Creating a website and compellingly telling our story can lead to great support.
  • Collaborative events with local businesses or donation drives can further enhance fundraising efforts. This is one of the oldest and the best ways to raise funds for any project. It is not different for a playground project. 

How to Secure Funding

  1. Identify the Right Funding Source
  • Research potential funders, understanding their priorities and past funding patterns. This will help tailor your approach effectively.
    When you approach the right type of organisation to fund your project, it can be easier to secure the funds. If your values and cause align with them, it can be helpful.
  1. Assemble a Diverse Team
  • Form a team with varied expertise, ensuring all aspects of the funding process, from proposal drafting to community engagement, are covered.
  1. Detailed Planning and Design
  • Clearly outline your project’s requirements. If you’re an educational institution, highlight the learning benefits. For public spaces, emphasise community benefits.
    Collaborating with experts can provide valuable insights and optimise designs to fit budgets. At Creo, we worked with dozens of schools and
  1. Craft a Persuasive Proposal
  • Your proposal should convey the project’s benefits, long-term impact, and relevance to the funder’s priorities.
  1. Engage with Stakeholders and Networking
  • Whether it’s parents for a school playground or residents for a public park, gather feedback and showcase this support in your proposal.
  • Building relationships with potential funders, attending relevant workshops, and leveraging existing connections can open more opportunities.
  1. Leverage Media Exposure
  • Local media can amplify your project’s visibility, drawing attention and potentially attracting more donors.

Check our latest Case Study from CPlay! A true community effort

Full Service Design and Build companies work with you from concept.

Extra Tips

  • Be Prepared: Organize all necessary documents and ensure clear communication among stakeholders.
  • Tailor Your Requests: Adapt your funding requests to resonate with each potential funder’s objectives. Taking your time and being clear in your messaging is essential when dealing with different potential funders.  It is crucial to align your values with the funder’s values.
  • Stay Aligned: Ensure your project’s goals align seamlessly with the mission of the organisations or individuals you approach.

Not Sure Where to Start?

  • Begin with potential funding organisations’ websites. Their FAQs can offer insights.
  • If you are still in doubt about reaching out to some groups, call them and ensure your doubts are answered.

Conclusion

Getting funds for a playground, whether for a school, community, or public space, requires effort, persistence, and a clear vision. Your dream playground can become a reality with the right approach and resources. All backed up by an expert team that will guide you through the process.

Ready to take the next step? Feel free to give us a call on 0800 000 334 or book an ideas session below.

5 things to consider when choosing your playground location

Think of a playground. You probably picture swings, slides, and giggles all around. But there’s so much more to it. Playgrounds are unique places where all its users grow, learn, and have fun.

They’re important in schools, learning centres, and suburbs everywhere. It’s an essential part of children’s development. Picking the right  playground location means it’s safe, easy to get to, and welcoming for everyone. It’s a big choice, and you want to get it right. In this article, we will cover the 5 most important things when choosing your playground location.

1. Safety First: Evaluating the Terrain and Environment

  • Ground Stability: Ensuring the ground is firm and suitable for playground installations. In New Zealand, a geological survey to asses whether the area is safe in case of earthquakes is a must.
    Choosing a location for your playground where the ground is stable can save you costs if you need to pump water off the ground or make it firmer, in case you are installing more significant pieces of equipment.
  • Natural Hazards: Checking for nearby water bodies, steep inclines, or other potential dangers. These can be positive or negative. It all depends on your design and how you incorporate it into your playground plan.
    If your playground location wants to focus on nature play, it is great to have a water body around, not forgetting to make sure it is a safe space for all users.
    Steep inclines can be helpful to your design. As long as the playground is not on a steep incline, it will limit your options for equipment and play features and can be detrimental to inclusivity.
  • Sun Exposure: The importance of shade and avoiding areas with prolonged direct sunlight. Children, parents, and anyone who comes to your play space will want to have as much fun as possible, if possible, in a safe way.
    Providing shaded spots for rest is crucial in a playground design. If you are planning for school or early childhood, it is of extreme importance, as children will want to play whether it is sunny or not.

    Read more on our playground budget series: How to budget for your site prep.
Top view of a school playground

2. Accessibility and Inclusivity

  • Proximity to Facilities: Ensuring the playground is close to restrooms, drinking water sources, and other essential amenities. Add value to your space and make it easy for people to come and go with facilities for users to go to.

You can even implement them in your playground concept, making them features that are part of your space, not just plotted items out of necessity.

  • Wheelchair Access: Ensure the location is accessible to all children, including those with disabilities. Not only children but people of all ages as well. Play spaces should be inclusive and multigenerational. Public spaces that are inclusive create more resilient children.
  • Ease of Supervision: Locations that allow educators and guardians to monitor children easily. Early learning centres thoughtfully designed can have excellent play value, accessibility and ease of supervision for caretakers.

In public spaces, seating and play equipment should be designed hand in hand, following a flow. So, choose a location for your playground that takes this into account.

CPlay, Surface design and equipment setout by Creo.

3. Size and Future Expansion of your Playground Location

  • Current Needs vs. Future Growth: Anticipating the growth of the institution or community and ensuring space for future expansion. Are you planning a small community school or a big public play space?

Choosing the right location can determine the success of your playground. Choosing a space that can be upgraded in the future is a great way to keep track of new trends, add new equipment, and keep your space relevant as time goes by.

4. Integration with Nature and Learning on your Playground Location

  • Natural Elements: Choosing locations that offer natural beauty and elements enhancing sensory play. As mentioned before, this is also a safety concern. You can create an urban natural pocket playground implementing nature play in your space.
    Or you can have a full-on adventure park just on the outskirts of town. It is essential to human development to be in touch with nature. It improves our sense of belonging and existence.
  • Outdoor Classrooms: The potential to integrate learning spaces within the playground for an enriched educational experience. Choosing a location where you can easily add sensory features is an excellent way of learning and having fun.
    Think of a play space area where children can roam by themselves, discover new things, and imagine through play.

5. Community and Stakeholder Engagement

  • Feedback from Educators and Parents: Understanding the needs and desires of those who will use and supervise the playground most. This is one of the most important things you have to do: engage with the community.
  • Council and Developer Considerations: Ensuring the location aligns with broader community plans and developments.

Conclusion

When setting up a playground, safety always comes first, ensuring solid ground and a hazard-free area. It’s essential that the space is accessible so everyone can join in the fun. Consider the size; will it still fit the community’s needs in a few years?

It’s also great to blend elements of nature and learning, turning play areas into places where kids can grow and discover. And always remember to listen to the community’s feedback; they’ll guide you to what works best. With these considerations, we’re on track to create playgrounds that will be cherished for years to come.


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.



Caroline Bay Playground

Caroline Bay Playground

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A new destination playground for the whole community.

Client:
CPlay
Location:
Timaru
Circa budget:
$275,000

Playground for all!

CPlay story starts from a vision to create a space where users of all ages, abilities and background can enjoy, interact and create memories.

From that vision, the volunteer group was created to bring Caroline Bay Playground back to life with a unique design that tells the story of its people.

CPlay focused on inclusivity, local heritage and making sure that this playground will set the standard for what public spaces should thrive for when designing new spaces.

 

The Story

Caroline Bay and its surrounding region have a rich and notorious history spanning millions of years. It all began with the reef under the sea, which formed from a lava flow extending from Timaru inland to the shore.

When humans began to explore these lands, the Te Tihi-o-Maru region transformed into a gathering place. Early Maori groups like Waitaha, Rapuwai, and Kati Mamoe would collect food from Waitarakao (Washdyke Lagoon) and head to the West Coast to gather pounamu. Today, Arowhenua is the local marae.

With the arrival of Europeans, Timaru transitioned from a whaling spot to a hub for South Canterbury. The shallow reefs, however, were treacherous. Many ships found themselves wrecked or stranded along the Caroline Bay coastline. This led to the establishment of the Timaru Volunteer Rocket Brigade, whose goal was to rescue passengers and crews from ships that met misfortune on the reef.

These historical episodes are now vividly told at the new CPlay playground, capturing everything from its geological foundations to the local Maori heritage and the European arrivals.

Read the full story at CPlay.

How the Community Created This Space

Through a community initiative, CPlay volunteers collaborated with various groups in Timaru to guarantee that the playground would be inclusive and reflect the local narrative.

Understanding and catering to the community’s genuine desires was crucial for CPlay’s success. The new additions include playground equipment for various age groups, sensory components, and other inclusive features— all based on community feedback.

Generous contributions from numerous donors provided the essential funding, showcasing what the community can achieve when united in purpose.

CPlay Design

The vision to showcase Timaru’s millennia-old story has always driven the community group behind the CPlay concept.

CPlay’s design was a combined effort of the community and outstanding industry partners. Rushton Architects was behind the area’s design, while Creo managed the surface detailing design and equipment layout. Playground Centre designed and manufactured the amazing playground equipment that features Timaru’s Lighthouse and Shipwreck.

Particular design highlights include the bespoke lighthouse and shipwreck, complemented by a surface design that creates a journey into history and local heritage. This journey also features the Taniwha, a creation of the gifted local Maori artist Francine Spencer.

Every part of this playground tells a story, incorporating careful planning and artistic intent, making it unique and visually captivating.

The vision to showcase Timaru's millennia-old story has always driven the community group behind the CPlay concept.

For the Community, With the Community

CPlay would remain a dream without the collective effort of everyone in Timaru. From the diligent volunteers who lifted this project off the ground to the individuals involved in design and on-site work, all played a part in making this project a premier attraction in South Canterbury.

Public play spaces are continually evolving. CPlay stands out by creating a destination catering to users of all ages, abilities, and cultural backgrounds. This was only possible due to community engagement, industry expertise, and, most importantly, individuals driven by passion to shape communities for its people.

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How to make your existing playground inclusive

You have a playground that needs to become inclusive, and you wonder how to achieve it. With the new play principles evolving daily, inclusivity is the key to making play spaces open for all people of all ages and abilities.

This article will cover everything you need to consider when upgrading your playground to be more inclusive.

What is inclusive design?

In the realm of playgrounds, inclusive design is emerging as a game-changer. It’s not just about making play areas accessible; it’s about ensuring every child feels a sense of belonging, irrespective of their abilities.

Universally designed swings or see-saws, for instance, are not just pieces of equipment. They are symbols of a playground where all children can play together, breaking down barriers and fostering community integration, equal play opportunities, and shared experiences.

Learn more about inclusive design:
Inclusive Playground Design: An Adventure in Inclusion and Fun for All

Inclusive Playground SeeSaw
Lorna Irene Reserve Playground

Make your existing playground inclusive.

  1. Accessible Surfacing: Choose surfacing materials that are firm, stable, and slip-resistant, like rubber or artificial turf. This is an easy way to upgrade your playground. Reorganising your space flow with accessible surfacing for all children to different features increases inclusivity.
  2. Ramps: Have a tower or a slide? Connect it to a mound or create a ramp where children can access it. Make sure to keep the elevation degree accessible for users of all ages and abilities to go up and down.
  3. Variety of Play Equipment: You can choose many options to make your playground inclusive. Low-basket swings, inclusive seesaws and trampolines for wheelchair access are great options.
  4. Sensory-Stimulating Activities: For a tactile interaction, musical panels, sensory pathways, and playing with colour are great to make your space more inclusive. Easy to install, you can easily upgrade your playground with this feature.
  5. Quiet Spaces: For users with a high level of sensitivity, it is essential to make spaces without much stimulation, such as shaded areas with different types of equipment that cater for them.
  6. Inclusive Seating: Often overlooked, inclusive seating is a great way to make your area more inclusive. Armrests, low benches and access for wheelchair users are some of the ways to improve your playground inclusivity.
Inclusive playground with carousel and basket swings.
Creo designed playground with ground carousel and basket swing and accessible surfacing.

The costs of making your existing playground inclusive

When you engage in your new project, it is important to understand how far your budget can get you and how many inclusive features you can install in your play space. The more features you can make inclusive, the better results the whole community will get.

However, it is essential to stay true to your budget and upgrade the features that will impact the most,

Site prep – potential demolition and replacement

Independent of how much you have in your budget, make sure to allocate 1/3 of your project to site prep. You can squeeze this more if you don’t want a complete overhaul of your space and want to make a few areas accessible and implement inclusive features.

This may incur removing surface or old equipment and creating new pathways.

Equipment

Invest in diverse play equipment that caters to children of all abilities. There are many ways to make your playground more inclusive. Below we compiled some options.

Swings

Low basket swings are the most common inclusive equipment that you can have in your space. If you already have a swing in your playground (where you can save on budget), consider lowering its height and adding a safety surfacing path. 

Play pods made from wet-pour rubber are great to make it inclusive. Adding a new swing set in your playground can range from $10,000 to $25,000, depending on the size of your space and the set you wish to install.

Seesaws

Being inclusive means that children of all abilities can play together. Seesaws that are inclusive can have users of different abilities interacting. 

They can cost anything between $5,000-$15,000 fully installed with safety surfacing.

Panels

You can add all kinds of games in panels. They range from musicals to puzzles. You can purchase off-the-shelf or custom-made panels that suit your location and tell your space story.

Ground Carousel

One of the most inclusive play equipment you can add. It requires a safe fall perimeter around it and some groundwork to fix the equipment to ground level. 

It can range from $5,000 to $10,000 fully installed but can accommodate many users, enhancing its play value.

Check Creo Playground Equipment Range

Trampolines

Ground trampolines are fun for all! The little ones can jump in and play, and children of all abilities can use this equipment and have fun. 

Requires more work on the ground to fix the springs and have enough room for drainage.

Sensory play equipment

They are easy to add, and all users love them. Sensory equipment can range from a pathway to panels. You can fit it in most spaces as they can be attached to a wall, under a tower or just on a path. 

The options are many, such as sensory gardens, sound stations, visual boards and colourful surfaces.

 

Surfacing

Surface is the most essential part of making your playground inclusive. Why is that? Because it will make it accessible in the first place. 

There is no reason to have a low basket swing if you do not have a clean and easy access pathway for wheelchair users, for example.

When planning your playground upgrade, you can make use of different types of surfaces that will be inclusive. Artificial turf, wet-poured rubber, concrete, and asphalt are the most common.

For extra play value, consider unique designs with pour ‘n’ play, where colourful items can be installed on the ground and made accessible.

What you and the users get from it

  1. Physical Benefits: Playgrounds are fantastic places where kids can engage in physical activities and have fun. These activities help kids to develop their body coordination, balance, and fitness. In short, playgrounds are great for keeping kids active and healthy.
  2. Cognitive Benefits: These playgrounds offer various settings and activities that boost children’s brain growth, encouraging them to think creatively, use their imagination, and learn by exploring.
  3. Social Benefits: Playgrounds designed for inclusivity allow kids from all abilities to connect, promoting understanding, teamwork, and a sense of community.
  4. Emotional Benefits: Such playgrounds give every child, regardless of their abilities, a chance to play side by side with their friends, enhancing their self-worth and confidence and reducing feelings of worry.

Looking to the future

Inclusive playgrounds are here to stay. The more inclusive you make your play space, the better the gains for all users.

Remember always to engage your community, students and people who will most benefit from your space to add the best features to make your playground more inclusive.

How to build a playground in 2023 guide

 

Ready to make the change? Engage with Creo, the only Full-service playground company in New Zealand, to guide you through the process. Call us at 0800 000 334 or book a site visit.