After nearly five years of collaboration and community effort, Destination Kāwaroa is now complete. The delivery of all three stages marks a major milestone, bringing a vibrant, accessible new heart to the Taranaki coastline.

What began as a bold dream from Bryce Barnett has evolved into a true community legacy. Destination Kāwaroa has been brought to life by Taranaki Foundation in partnership with Ngāti Te Whiti (local mana whenua), New Plymouth District Council, and NP Partners.

Since the opening of Stage One in December 2024, this expansive, fully accessible space has quickly become one of Taranaki’s most loved destinations, with up to 2,000 people enjoying it each day over the summer months.

“Seeing Destination Kāwaroa now, fully complete, leaves me with a great sense of pride. My initial vision and dream have become reality. Many told me it would be too hard, but the community backing tells another story. Magic happens when people come together, and together, we’ve created something that will be enjoyed for generations,” shares Bryce Barnett.

Bryce and Delwyn Barnett at the ‘Big Day of Play’ – a community celebration marking the completion of this project on August 15th.

A Community-Powered Milestone

Over 85 percent of the $7.3 million project cost was raised through public and philanthropic donations, a remarkable achievement. It speaks volumes about the power of community and what’s possible when Taranaki comes together.

Key funders included NZCT and Toi Foundation. In addition, more than 350 individuals, families, businesses, and community partners contributed through a mix of cash donations and in-kind support such as timber, concrete, labour, and professional services.

“This project is a true testament to Team Taranaki,” says Josh Hickford, Chief Executive of Taranaki Foundation. “From the conceptual phase through to construction and implementation, the quality of workmanship has been exceptional. Every contractor brought creative, cost-effective solutions at generous discounts, contributing to a project that was meticulously managed and delivered on time and on budget.”

Team Taranaki came together at Destination Kāwaroa on August 15th for an afternoon of fun, celebrating the completion of the project!

Designed with the Community

Community input helped shape every part of Destination Kāwaroa, from initial ideas to final features. The project reflects the skills and input of people across the region, spanning design, construction, and storytelling.

Consultation with groups such as Autism Taranaki helped inform design elements, including learning boards tailored to the diverse needs of tamariki. Changing Places also supported the project to ensure toilet facilities are fully accessible. Every effort has been made to ensure the space is inclusive and welcoming for all.

“This has been one of the most rewarding projects I’ve had the privilege to work on,” says Renee Davies, Manager of Strategic Planning at New Plymouth District Council. “It represents a beautiful meeting place of land and sea. Every part has been carefully designed and shaped by collaboration, from the first sketches to the final landscaping.”

Julie Healey from Ngāti Te Whiti Kūao shares “Destination Kāwaroa celebrates and brings to the forefront elements of our rich Ngāti Te Whiti history. Through interactive play features, it facilitates kōrero and appreciation of the whenua (land), moana (sea), and te taiao (the environment). We are proud of this.”

A Legacy for Generations

“The completion of Destination Kāwaroa is more than just the opening of a new space. It’s a celebration of what can be achieved when a community dreams big and works together. It’s a place where laughter will be heard for generations,” says Josh Hickford.

Thank you, Team Taranaki. Together, we have turned a dream into reality.

Enjoy the play.