Taranaki Foundation is proud to announce that Destination Kāwaroa is now fully funded. With the fundraising goal and project budget of $7 million successfully achieved, this marks a major milestone for this landmark community project. This achievement ensures the completion of all planned stages, bringing the full vision to life.

“The overwhelming community support for this project is a testament to the power of collaboration, partnership, and the shared desire to create a lasting legacy,” said Josh Hickford, Chief Executive of the Taranaki Foundation. “These generous contributions will leave an enduring impact and visible imprint on our community.”

Josh Hickford with his 1-year-old son, Harvey Hickford, enjoying this milestone together.

What began as a dream of Bryce Barnett has grown into a collaborative initiative between Taranaki Foundation, Ngāti Te Whiti, New Plymouth District Council, and NP Partners. Since the opening of Stage One in December 2024, Destination Kāwaroa has become a thriving space, with up to 2,000 people enjoying the area daily. This free, accessible play area is already making a meaningful difference in the community.

Bryce Barnett shares, “It is special to me that the community has backed my dream for this destination. From the start, I knew it would take determination, along with the support and confidence of the community, to bring this dream to reality.”

“I have a warm feeling in my heart every time I go down there and see people of all ages enjoying these accessible and educational facilities. They give us a greater appreciation of the connection between land and sea and its environmental, ecological, and cultural impacts.”

Sophie Turner, 5 years old enjoying all Destination Kāwaroa has to offer. 

Since opening, additional support from new donors, including Kindred Trust, Ngāmotu Rotary and Four Winds Foundation has helped bring the project to completion.

Stage 3 involves additional fundraising, which Ngāmotu Rotary has committed to already. They will be raising a small amount primarily for exercise equipment behind the Warrior course.

Construction of Stage Two, which will transform the current bark area, is set to begin in May and is expected to open in July. This phase will introduce new jumping, swinging, and bouncing opportunities, further enhancing the space.

Stage Three will follow, beginning in June and also set for completion in July. This stage will feature a range of free exercise equipment for the community, along with native gardens, walking areas, picnic tables, and inviting spaces for families and individuals to gather, play, share food, or simply relax.

Josh Hickford acknowledged the significance of reaching this funding milestone, emphasising the collective effort behind it.

“This has been a major fundraising effort. We have reached our summit, with highlights including securing key grants, engaging hundreds of community members, and seeing the joy on faces at the Stage One opening – that really is priceless.”

Julie Healey from Ngāti Te Whiti was one of the first to go down the slides at Destination Kāwaroa opening December 2024.

To ensure the ongoing sustainability of Destination Kāwaroa, a legacy fund has been established through Taranaki Foundation. The Destination Kāwaroa Fund allows individuals, families, businesses, trusts, and visitors to contribute, either during their lifetime or through estate/bequest giving, to help preserve and enhance this treasured community asset for future generations.

“We have been relentless in our pursuit of making Destination Kāwaroa a reality for our community. To see it now, knowing it is a sure thing, is incredibly fulfilling. It would not have been possible without the groundswell of support from so many. Hearing our donors’ stories and their reasons for supporting has been truly special. Kāwaroa is a place that means so much to so many,” shared Josh Hickford.

Find out more and contribute to Destination Kāwaroa here

Read the Taranaki Daily News article here