Waitara High School Inclusive Playground

An inclusive play wish granted

Waitara High School is committed to developing active and inspired lifelong learners who have a strong sense of belonging and belief. To reflect this ethos in their outdoor environment, the school set out to transform an underutilised space into a playspace where all students – including those with diverse needs and abilities – could interact, move, and have fun together.

To bring their vision to life, the school engaged Playground Centre to support them through the planning, design and installation of their new inclusive playspace.

Turning vision into reality

The project was driven by the high school’s Special Educational Needs Co-Ordinator and centred firmly on inclusion – ensuring their playspace provided opportunities for students with a wide range of physical, sensory and developmental needs.

Playground Centre partnered closely with the school at every stage, bringing inclusive design expertise and planning tools – including the All-Inclusive Fun Handbook – to guide ideas, shape concepts and ensure the final solution delivered maximum benefit within their budget.

Importantly, the playspace was designed to reflect the school’s deep connection to Māori culture and Waitara’s landscape. The roof of the adjacent classroom brings in the presence of Taranaki Maunga. The playspace’s roof represents a moana, the climbing cubby a whare, and the water play area symbolises Waitara Te Awa, while the surfacing design features Māori motifs.

Together, these layers of design combine to create a playspace that is inclusive, culturally significant, and true to the school’s vision.

The difference play makes

While modest in scale, the new playspace has made a big difference to the Waitara High School community.

By incorporating existing infrastructure such as a large shelter, paved and grassed areas into the design – and adding inclusive equipment and softfall surfacing – the school now has a spacious undercover playspace. Transforming what was once an uninspiring area into an environment that encourages movement, interaction and connection.

Each piece of equipment was carefully selected to target specific developmental benefits, while enabling students to engage in a variety of physical, sensory and social play activities:

• Commando Net Fitness Station – builds strength, balance and coordination.
• Cubby Climbing Hut 2104 – a climbing structure and cosy retreat in one, with an interactive play panel.
• Talking Tubes – encouraging self-expression and communication.
• Stepping Logs Fitness Station – developing agility and confidence.
• Flying Saucer Swing (Steel Frame) – able to be enjoyed by individuals or groups.
• In-ground Trampoline Pi Black – safe, dynamic play that develops motor skills.
• Custom Raised Sandpit with Stones – fostering sensory exploration and cooperative play.

As one staff member shared on the very first day of play:

“I would like to thank you all very much for bringing our wish for a playground together. It is absolutely fantastic, the kids had a ball today, and I am sure they will continue to do so for many years to come.”