The Ground
Nestled in the picturesque Karangahake Gorge in the Hauraki Plains, Karangahake School pupils have nature’s playground on their doorstep, but nothing beats having a play space on the school grounds.

To bring this new playground to life, the school’s strong community connections came to the fore and after years of dedication from the school’s PTA and Board of Trustees, as well as countless fundraising events and initiatives, Playground Creations helped to make this true community project a reality.

The Creation
In 2023, Playground Creations held a student design workshop, where tamariki from across year levels shared their ideas and wishes for their dream playground. Their creativity helped to shape a play space that truly reflects Karangahake School’s spirit and values.

Designed for all students, from Year 0–8, the playground provides a space to play, learn, collaborate, and imagine. A circuit-style layout encourages movement and connection, while purple and green slides proudly representing the school colours, add vibrancy alongside an eye-catching blue and orange 3D Cube.

The Play
The new playground offers a wide range of play and challenge for all ages and abilities. Equipment includes:

• Tube slides, double jet slides, and slide poles for fast, thrilling play,

• Wave monkey bars, balance ropes, and climbing walls to build strength and confidence,

• Track glide, rope challenges, and bridges for active movement and coordination,

• Octagon decks and shop fronts and pommels providing rich opportunities for imaginative and social play,

• The striking 3D Cube that inspire creative movement and problem-solving.

Together, these elements create a play space that’s as energetic and vibrant as the Karangahake community itself — a place where tamariki can explore, connect, and celebrate the joy of play every day.