After four years in the making, Destination Kāwaroa was officially opened on Wednesday 18 December, offering a world-class, intergenerational play and learning space just in time for Christmas and summer.

 

Taranaki Foundation Chair, Phil Hinton, speaking to the assembled audience at the opening.

This landmark project, inspired by Bryce Barnett, was brought to life by Taranaki Foundation, in partnership with Ngāti Te Whiti, New Plymouth District Council, and NP Partners. Designed to be one of the largest play spaces in New Zealand, Destination Kāwaroa transforms an area already rich in cultural and community heritage.

Over 300 project partners, donors, supporters, and their families gathered for a special blessing ceremony, led by Ngāti Te Whiti, to mark this milestone. The event was followed by speeches and then an exciting time of play and exploration.

Bryce Barnett, who first envisioned the project, shared his pride and joy in the accomplishment. “Today is a dream come true. Seeing all generations come together in this space fills me with pride and joy. This is a place where memories will be made for years to come, and I’m so proud of what we’ve achieved together as a community.”

Bryce with his grandchildren planting the final pōhutukawa at the site.

The space holds deep cultural significance, with the name Kāwaroa, meaning “long reef,” reflecting its strong connections to the land, sea, and people of Ngāti Te Whiti.

During the ceremony Julie Healey of Ngāti Te Whiti emphasized how the project celebrates this rich history and heritage. “It’s exciting to see it get to this stage,” she shared, before joining Delwyn Barnett in taking the first slide down one of the newly installed slides, with children soon following to explore all the play areas.

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

The success of Destination Kāwaroa is testament to the power of private-public partnerships. Over 85% of the project’s funding came from public and philanthropic donations, external to local government, with local contractors, community contributions, and the generosity of donors playing a vital role in bringing the vision to life.

Mayor Neil Holdom reflecting on what we can achieve when we work together

Josh Hickford, CE of Taranaki Foundation, reflected on the significance of the project, saying, “This initiative truly demonstrates the strength of our community coming together. It’s been an honour to play a part in bringing this ambitious vision to life. We’re thrilled to see families and friends begin creating lasting memories here.”

Enjoying the waterplay at Destination Kāwaroa

The project reflects the expertise of many across the region, encompassing design, construction, and storytelling. Consultation with groups such as Autism Taranaki has informed the design of some play including the learning boards to cater to the diverse needs of tamariki.
Additionally, Changing Places has been part of this project to ensure that the toilet amenities are fully accessible. Many steps and measures have been taken throughout the project to ensure the space is inclusive for all.

Destination Kāwaroa is a true testament of what can be achieved when passion and partnership come together toward a shared goal.  All are invited to come down, have fun and explore this extraordinary space.

Find out more and contribute to Destination Kāwaroa here

Read the Taranaki Daily News article here

📷 Photo Credit: Natalie Waugh photographer