We had hoped to begin construction before Christmas, but the timeline has shifted as the project is still in the tendering phase. Work will now start later than planned, and we’ll share the new start date as soon as it has been confirmed.

There is a lot to consider when creating a playground including design, equipment, construction, surfacing, landscaping and any upgrade of seating, picnic and BBQ facilities (not to mention, building costs have gone up substantially in the last few years).

This is part of the 2021-2031 Long Term Plan and is budgeted for in years 2024/25, following feedback from the community. Morrinsville has already received their new playground in Thomas Park, and Te Aroha will be in line for the next one.

Pieces of the old playground that passed a recent play audit and were deemed reusable will be stored for future council projects. Parts of the playground that were deemed not reusable will be disposed of.

Matamata Domain has been identified as the best location for a new playground. It is accessible from the Matamata town centre, pools, netball complex and fields, and has reasonably good parking.

Water play options require a lot of ongoing maintenance and cost to the community. We are currently looking into how we can include a water element in a sustainable way.

There are many different levels of accessibility and inclusivity within playgrounds, but accessible play options will definitely be included.

The toilet block is not part of the current upgrade so won’t be included within this project. However, a new toilet block has been proposed in the draft Long Term Plan for 2024-25, and space has been allowed for it in the draft design.