Work begins on Kerikeri Domain playground

Concept plans for the new Kerikeri Domain playground have been finalised and work on the play area is now underway.

The playground is a part of the wider Kerikeri Domain Revitalisation Project, which is a much-anticipated redesign of a popular public space in the Bay of Islands town. Other key elements of the project include a new skate park, a full-sized basketball court, new seating, drinking fountains and pathways.

The new playground is designed to cater to a range of age groups and abilities, and will include a flying fox, swings, slides, tunnels, climbing wall, towers and shade sails to protect users.

Bay of Islands-Whangaroa Community Board member and Chair of the Kerikeri Domain Working Group, Lane Ayr, says a lot of thought and planning has gone into Kerikeri Domain developments.

“The domain is a very important open space right in the centre of Kerikeri. We want all Far North residents and visitors to our district to enjoy the domain for years to come. Designs have been guided by the community and I think there will be something for everyone with play spaces for young tamariki, skateboarding and basketball, and a perimeter pathway for walkers.”

Some elements of the revitalisation project have already opened to the public. Completed sections of the new skate park were opened just before Christmas 2021, allowing skaters to try out the reconstructed ramps and jumps. In late February 2022, a ‘soft opening’ was held for the new basketball court and remaining skate park elements.

The playground is due to be completed in June, with a grand opening of the whole revitalisation project scheduled for later this year.

The $3 million Kerikeri Domain Revitalisation Project is funded through the Government’s COVID Response and Recovery Fund and will deliver priority infrastructure identified in the Kerikeri Domain Reserve Management Plan. Longer term plans over the next 10 years will be developed as funding becomes available.

Improvements will ensure that the domain is fun and safe with passive amenities such as seating, shade, shelter, and drinking fountains included.

The Kerikeri Domain Reserve Management Plan is available here.