Construction is underway on an exciting new obstacle course in the Taumarunui Domain initiated by the Taumarunui Youth and Community Trust (TYCT).
The project was selected from the contestable Empowering Communities - Enhancing Lives Fund which was fully financed by the previous Labour government’s Better Off Funding.
Executive Manager Community & Economic Development Pauline Welch said this project will add a vibrant and dynamic community space to the Taumarunui Domain, where tamariki and whanau of all ages can enjoy safe and stimulating outdoor activities.
“Play areas such as this support Council’s vision for our recreational outdoor spaces that enhance the health, inclusivity, and social cohesion of our communities,” she said.
To ensure the design reflected the voices of local youth, TYCT involved students from Turaki Primary School in a brainstorming session to inform the design process.
Their ideas helped shape a facility that will be both practical and personally meaningful to those who will use it most.
TYCT Manager Amy Perez said the idea was to create something that not only provided physical challenges but also inspired imagination and community ownership.
“We wanted to design a space that would speak to the creativity and energy of our tamariki, and ensure it was something they felt connected to,” said Perez.
“Giving young people a real say in the design was central to that. Their ideas included adventurous features, inclusive play elements, interactive learning opportunities, and social spaces to spend time with friends.
By involving tamariki directly in the design, the obstacle course will be both meaningful and engaging for those who will use it most,” she said.
Construction is expected to be completed by the end of May, with an official opening planned to celebrate the new addition to the Domain.
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