Entry received from: Kāpiti Coast District Council
Category: The Beca Award for Placemaking
Redesigned as part of the Kāpiti Coast District Council's playground renewal programme, the Lorna Irene Reserve Playground has become a beacon of inclusive play for the Kāpiti Coast and beyond. Responding to local community consultation, which highlighted the need for the playground to be more accessible, the playground has been thoughtfully rebuilt, creating a space which is now fully accessible and inclusive to all.
Working with disability advocates, including a local family whose son has cerebral palsy, all components of the playground were selected for accessibility and inclusivity - from the soft fall surfacing to the wheelchair accessible play equipment, and including favorites like the ground level trampoline and pieces which haven't been seen in New Zealand before like the Buglo wheelchair accessible seesaw.
The playground also includes a wheelchair accessible tower and an accessible carousel. Scented, tactile planting, coloured features and music makers provide inclusive sensory play opportunities. Gardens, grassed areas and trees provide connections to nature and places for whānau and community to meet and to watch the kids play.
Lorna Irene Reserve Playground is a stunning, hugely popular example of what can be achieved when play spaces are designed with the mindset of inclusion and accessibility for all.
Thank you to our category sponsor