Playspace Design and Build
Ardgowan School
Oamaru
Building a Space
for Everyone.
Client:
Ardgowan School
Location:
Oamaru
At Ardgowan School, located just outside Oamaru, the community had long dreamed of a space that could bring everyone together—students, whānau, and neighbours alike. When plans for a traditional hall weren’t possible, the school found an innovative solution: a custom-built Creo Shelter. More than just a structure, the shelter has become a vital hub for learning, play, and connection.
A Vision for All
The school’s vision was simple but ambitious: create an outdoor space that would unite the community while being practical, durable, and inspiring. “We needed something that wasn’t just for the school but for the wider community as well,” explained Principal Ryan Fraser. “Assemblies, prize-givings, playtime—even casual get-togethers—it had to be versatile and something that could last.”
The Board of Trustees chose Creo’s shelter for its proven strength, clean design, and trusted warranties. “We liked that it required very little maintenance, and the guarantees gave us complete confidence in the investment,” said Ryan.
A Smooth Process, a Stunning Result
Creo’s team managed the project seamlessly from start to finish, ensuring minimal disruption to school life. The sheltered area was safely fenced off during construction, and the work was completed in just two weeks. “The whole process was fantastic,” Ryan shared. “The team worked efficiently, and there was zero disturbance to the school.”
The students loved watching the structure take shape. “Seeing the shelter rise was so exciting for the kids—they couldn’t wait to start using it,” Ryan said. “And when the final pieces went up, it was an amazing moment. It’s hard to imagine the size and scale until you see it standing—it’s truly impressive.”
A Community Asset
Since its completion, the shelter has transformed how Ardgowan School connects with its community. Students use it daily for everything from lunch breaks to rainy-day basketball games. Whānau gather there for school events, and even during the holidays, the space has been buzzing with activity. “Families have been coming up to use the space—it’s already become a go-to spot for our community,” Ryan said.
The shelter’s benefits go beyond just providing a practical space. It has created opportunities for people to connect through shared events, casual catch-ups, or simply watching the tamariki play. “It’s become a place where people come together, and that’s something really special,” Ryan noted.
The ripple effect has even reached other schools, with local principals getting in touch to learn more about the shelter. “A colleague down in Dunedin reached out after seeing an article about it in the paper,” Ryan said. “I told them, ‘Get in touch with Creo—they’ve been amazing.’”
“We needed something that wasn’t just for the school but for the wider community as well. Assemblies, prize-giving, playtime—even casual get-togethers—it had to be versatile and something that could last.”