Construction of Ōmokoroa Domain's new million-dollar playground has officially begun, kicking off the construction of a feature that will undoubtedly become a drawcard for kids and adults alike.

Downer was awarded the playground construction contract in July, but works have been delayed until the final pieces of play equipment arrived from overseas.

Council's reserves and facilities projects and assets manager, Scott Parker, says they're thrilled the final playground pieces have arrived, as construction can now get underway and the playground will be ready for use in summer.

'It's been a long journey to get to this point. We undertook thorough community consultation over 18 months with tangata whenua, representatives from the community, businesses and schools.

'The final playground was designed to echo our community voices and provide a space for everyone to connect and have fun.”

The new playground equipment will include a tower slide structure, a new double rope swing that replaces the old lullaby, trampolines, tunnels and a hamster wheel, creating a new recreation experience for all.

Local schools Ōmokoroa No 1, Ōmokoroa Point, Pahoia, Whakamarama and Te Puna also got involved in the design of the play equipment, giving the project team some inspiration by bringing their ideas for the playground to life with models.

'The effort and enthusiasm from students was great, and we've done our best to reflect their ideas,” says Scott.

The new fit-for-purpose playground is an important part of the Ōmokoroa Domain upgrade which will ultimately include a boardwalk along The Esplanade and foreshore, a covered BBQ, footpaths, fitness equipment and landscaping.

The playground upgrade is funded through a mix of existing asset renewal funding and capital works funding.

For more information about this project, visit: www.westernbay.govt.nz/omokoroa-playground-upgrade

A concept plan of the new playground.