Lorenzdale Park

Playground Centre helped us achieve our goals of both safety and inclusivity. They took the time to explain options that would fit the community’s needs providing a playground that appeals visually and engages interactively.”

Kath Purnell | Te Ora Hou

A park with community at its heart

With roots deeply intertwined in Whanganui’s history, Lorenzdale Park was originally gifted to the people of Whanganui by Nicholas Meuli in 1923, in memory of his son, Lorenz, who lost his life in World War I.

Over the years, this park, located on Swiss Avenue in the Gonville area, has faced its challenges – underutilised and unloved amidst community safety concerns, and a target for vandals. However, a renewed vision fuelled by local passion and a collaborative effort has transformed the space into a vibrant hub of activity, connection, and pride for Gonville’s youth and families.

The park’s redevelopment aimed to not only enhance safety but to foster an inclusive space that supports the wellbeing and lifestyle of the surrounding community. With two distinct playgrounds for different age groups, outdoor fitness stations, shelter and BBQ area, as well as open spaces for free play, the revitalised Lorenzdale Park has emerged as a focal point for community engagement and development.

Collaboration and community vision

The transformation of Lorenzdale Park was made possible through a partnership between Whanganui District Council, Playground Centre and Urban Effects, working alongside community organisations, Te Ora Hou, Stone Soup, Sport Whanganui, and local residents.  

United by a shared recognition of the powerful, far-reaching and long-lasting impact that well-designed play and recreation spaces can have, the project partners aimed to not only rejuvenate the park but also deliver positive social outcomes for the community.

Public consultation informed the dual-stage project, spearheaded by community leader Kath Parnell of Te Ora Hou, a community and youth development organisation working with families and young people.

By tapping into the hopes and needs of Gonville residents and reflecting their ideas in the park’s design, Lorenzdale Park has become a welcoming, inclusive and safe space used and enjoyed by residents of all ages. It also supports Whanganui District Council’s broader vision for an open space network that enhances the liveability of the city’s suburbs, now and into the future.

An inclusive, accessible community hub

Prioritising inclusive design, the Lorenzdale Park upgrade was driven by the values of community connection and accessibility for all.

The Council, Playground Centre and Urban Effects and project partners worked together to bring the community’s vision to life across two stages.

In stage one, fitness equipment and a barbecue area were added, providing spaces for physical activity and community gatherings. Stage two followed with the installation of a volleyball net, new playground equipment, and a renovated basketball court, enriching opportunities for play and recreation across all age groups.

Highlights of the park include:

• Exercise equipment suited to various abilities, encouraging health and wellness for all ages.
• A new Birds Nest Tower Black Forest, a 6.9-metre-high climbing structure that challenges and excites, along with sensory play equipment include Play Chimes and an Eco Rain Wheel.
• An Inclusive Carousel designed for wheelchair accessibility, as well as a Flying Saucer Double Metaplay Swing that accommodates multiple children or single riders, enhancing social play.
• A sheltered barbecue area featuring an extra-large double gas BBQ with accessible tables designed for wheelchair users, promoting inter-generational gatherings and community events.

Taking the lead of community groups, Council and the local neighbourhood’s vision for a park that is central to their communal wellbeing, Lorenzdale Park is a recreation space that has become the very heart of the Gonville community.

Outcomes and lasting impact

The park’s transformation is part of Whanganui District Council’s broader city-wide strategy to revitalise open spaces, ensuring equitable access to recreational areas and a legacy of vibrant, inclusive play spaces for future generations.

Beyond the visible improvements to the park, the re-development of the park has worked to support the delivery of social outcomes that are critical to community development.

Through user-centred design and active community consultation, Lorenzdale Park now contributes to:

• Community confidence: The park is now a safe, welcoming outdoor space that has restored residents’ confidence in its use.
  
• Social cohesion: The park serves as a natural gathering space where social ties are strengthened, reducing isolation for residents across all age groups.
  
• Neighbourhood vibrancy: The visual appealing park enhances overall liveability of the area, supporting local businesses and residents to shine.
  
• Mental health and wellbeing: The accessible design encourages residents to enjoy and experience the physical and emotional benefits of outdoor recreation.
  
• Intergenerational connections: With features that appeal to all ages, the park nurtures interaction between generations, deepening community bonds.

Lorenzdale Park stands as an inspiring example of how thoughtful design and meaningful partnerships can bring about positive change, shaping not only physical spaces but also the lives of those who enjoy them.