Back in 2014, we first featured the desire of philanthropic Takapuna locals to create a very special playground on Gould Reserve in Takapuna. With a big chunk of their money, and the support of others, they achieved that goal, with the playground opening in 2016. Takapuna Beach Playground quickly became a destination for kids and families from all over. Fast-forward seven years and the same generous couple are funding enhancements, having already funded to upgrades to the existing playground as well as a high tech toilet 'changing places' on the site for those with special needs.
Jackie and Chris Reeve are wonderful people who give a great deal to their community. Their latest enhancements include additional play equipment for the littler ones and those with different needs. There are also two new barbecues and furniture for families to use, as well as new paths and gardens.
“This is the first playground in Auckland, if not New Zealand, to have this type of equipment installed for children with disabilities,” explains playground designer Philippa Bollond of Future Landscapes. Philippa designed the entire playground eight years ago, and has worked closely with Jackie and Chris, Auckland Council and the Devonport Takapuna Local Board, to bring the enhancements to fruition. “I believe more Councils around the country are starting to use this type of equipment which is great for the community. We are very lucky to have Jackie and Chris funding this in Takapuna.”
The new play equipment includes an accessible swing, a bouncy car and a large seesaw. These are all accessible for wheel chairs. A small monorail has three cars which can be pushed around a large ring and provides a bit of exercise for those pushing. Near the entrance to this additional play area is a mound that has a wide slide for users to go down, and there is a tunnel running through the mound. There are interactive play items, talk tubes, a rubber sphere and stepping logs and stilts. The kids will love it.
FREE Opening Celebration – Saturday 16 December, 10am to 11.30am
The opening of the enhanced Gould Reserve/Takapuna Beach Playground including new BBQ facilities, picnic area, bathroom and Changing Places amenities is being held on Saturday December 16th. There will be a sausage sizzle, fire truck, giant bubbles and even Spiderman and Elsa!
