Dream playground to become reality for Townsend Fields community
Waimakariri District Council media release: 29th August 2022
A flying fox, cycle track and picnic area were all on the wish list at Te Matauru School when Council’s Parks and Recreation team visited last November to get their thoughts on a new play space for Townsend Road Reserve.
The student’s ideas were incorporated into a draft concept plan, which residents had the chance to feedback on before the final concept plan was approved by the Rangiora-Ashley Community Board on 10th August.
Landscape Architect Tori Stableford says students had a strong interest in nature play, which also meets the rural and ecological design objectives of the Townsend Fields Subdivision.
“The reserve will be a unique play space for children to learn, grow and connect. It will also provide a fun community space for people of all ages and abilities,” says Tori.
The final design includes:
- A kids cycle track;
- Nature art space;
- Nature play area;
- Public toilets;
- Picnic area;
- Cycle path;
- Kids BMX track;
- Kick a ball area;
- Sensory garden;
- Swings;
- Slides;
- Spinner;
- Flying fox; and
- Rockers.
Now that the Master Plan has been approved by the Board, Greenspace Staff are beginning the process of ordering play equipment and engaging contractors. Work is expected to begin on site early 2023 with completion expected in autumn. This will be partly determined by the longer than normal lead times for items such as the play equipment.
“We’re really looking forward to inviting our friends at Te Matauru School and the wider community to the grand opening to celebrate once the playground is complete,” says Tori.
The Reserve is located in Townsend Fields - a new subdivision in West Rangiora - which will be home to around 350 homes when completed.
View the final plans for the play space and reserve in Townsend Fields.