Play Space Guidelines
For many councils, schools, and community organisations across Aotearoa, investing in a play space involves balancing a wide range of factors. These include budget constraints, long-term maintenance, accessibility, cultural responsiveness, safety requirements, and the diverse needs of tamariki and whānau.
Decisions can be complex. What types of play experiences should be prioritised? How can spaces be inclusive and accessible for all abilities? How do we reflect local identity, support environmental sustainability, and ensure long-term value?
The Play Space Design Guidelines provide a shared framework to support informed decision-making throughout the lifecycle of a play space project, from planning and design through to delivery and maintenance.
Developed with input from practitioners, designers, mana whenua, accessibility advocates, and communities, the guidelines promote a holistic approach to play. They emphasise creating spaces that are inclusive, engaging, culturally meaningful, and connected to their surroundings.
The guidance supports play spaces that:
- Encourage fun, creativity, and exploration.
- Welcome people of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds
- Reflect the stories and identity of the place.
- Support health, well-being, and social connection.
- They are durable, sustainable, and adaptable over time.
Rather than prescribing a single solution, the guidelines provide a foundation for collaboration and innovation. They are designed to help create a connected network of play opportunities that meet the needs of communities now and into the future.
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