Elements of traditional Māori play, alongside pūraakau of the local area, have been the inspiration for the design of a beautiful, contemporary new playground Fletcher Living has gifted to the community of Waiata Shores. Te Waituarua Reserve Playground has been brought to life thanks to a collaboration between Fletcher Living and local iwi, represented by Kathleen Wilson, of Te Aakitai Waiohua, and Clynt White, urban designer from Waahi Wairua. Originally designated as a grass reserve, Fletcher Living developed it into a destination space for the community.
The $2 million playground was fully funded by Fletcher Living and gifted to Auckland Council. “Fostering a sense of community is a core part of our Fletcher Living purpose. Having a space where families can gather, relax and share some carefree moments encourages this.
By collaborating with local iwi, Auckland Council, and the local board, we have created a destination playground with a cultural narrative to provide a unique play experience for families,” says Steve Evans, chief executive of Fletcher Building’s residential and development division. Kathleen Wilson’s deep understanding of the story of the local area and Manukau Harbour, combined with Clynt White’s innovative design concepts, has resulted in a playground experience that blends traditional ngahere (forest) play with contemporary elements. Wilson said: “I took inspiration from the presence of Kaiwhare, the guardian taniwha of the Manukau Harbou.
