Creating New Zealand's most accessible playground at Pohe Island Whangārei

Glen from Central Whangarei

Setting a Goal
Creating New Zealand's most accessible playground at Pohe Island Whangārei, making it a beacon for accessible tourism.

Inspired by photos shared by visitors like Kylee Ostermann, we’ve studied Hamilton’s Magical Bridge Playground considered New Zealand's best accessible playground—and we believe Pohe Island can be even better. With ample space in Area 7, we have the opportunity to create something truly special. Now, we need the support of those who can help turn this vision into reality.

♿ Area 7 – A Perfect Place for Inclusive Play
Area 7 at Pohe Island offers a unique opportunity to further enhance Whangārei’s most celebrated play space. This wide, open, and level area sits adjacent to the existing Pohe Island Destination Playground and is ideally suited for expansion—especially with accessible play equipment that welcomes children of all abilities.

🌿 Why Area 7 Is Perfect
This naturally flat terrain provides an ideal foundation for inclusive infrastructure. Its proximity to the main playground, walking paths, and parking makes it highly accessible for families using wheelchairs, mobility devices, or prams. The area is already cleared and lightly landscaped, reducing preparation costs while allowing for seamless integration with the surrounding green space.

💡 Proposed Accessible Features
To build on our vision of New Zealand’s most inclusive playground, we plan to introduce thoughtfully chosen equipment that ensures every child can play, connect, and thrive. Proposed additions include:

✅ Wheelchair-Accessible Seesaw
Allows children with and without mobility devices to play together in balance and cooperation.

✅ Inclusive Swing with High-Back Support
A secure and comfortable swing option for children who need additional trunk or head support.

✅ Sensory Play Panels
Interactive panels at wheelchair height to engage touch, sight, and sound—supporting neurodiverse children and sensory learning.

✅ Smooth Rubber Safety Surfacing
A continuous, wheelchair-friendly surface ensuring safe and easy movement across the play zone.

✅ Shaded Quiet Zones
Calm areas with seating for rest or regulation, designed for children who may be easily overwhelmed or overstimulated.

✅ All-Access Carousel
A roundabout designed to include children in wheelchairs alongside their peers for shared spinning fun.

🧭 A Natural Extension of the Playground
By expanding into Area 7, we can reduce congestion in the main playground while creating a space that truly reflects universal design principles. It’s about more than equipment—it’s about building a future where every child, regardless of ability, can experience the joy of play.

Area 7 is ready. The need is clear. The opportunity is now.

Let’s build a space where inclusion is not just possible—it’s permanent.

poheislandwhangarei.co.nz...