SECTOR: EARLY CHILDCARE
“From the first concept meeting to the final brush-down, Playscape have been nothing short of exceptional. [They] took our vision for a space that invites tamariki to explore, take risks, and connect with te taiao, and elevated it into something truly special.”
Our collaboration with Mahurangi Kindergarten and Kaitiaki Kindergartens began with a clear and inspiring vision: to create an outdoor play space that encourages nature exploration, maximises useable space and strengthens connections with te taiao. We designed a natural playground that reflected Mahurangi Kindergarten’s core values of kaitiakitanga. This project reflects our commitment to designing nature-based play environments that support child-led learning, risk-taking, and emotional wellbeing.
The result is a vibrant, responsive environment designed to spark curiosity, support open-ended play, and offer meaningful contact with the natural world. It’s a place where children can move freely, discover at their own pace, and feel safe and inspired to explore. From interactive play zones to quiet, reflective pockets, every corner of the natural playground was shaped to support the diverse ways children learn and engage outdoors.
A key part of this project was carefully managing construction while Mahurangi Kindergarten remained open. Tamariki had to adapt and get creative with the space they had, which turned out to be a positive learning experience. It also gave them a front-row seat to the transformation, and they were fascinated by the daily progress on their new outdoor learning environment.
“Our kaiako are already noticing richer, more collaborative play, and whānau have commented on how the design reflects our values of kaitiakitanga and inclusion. It’s rare to find a partner who listens so closely, iterates so openly, and then executes with such craftsmanship—it’s a testament to your whole team’s skill and heart.” – Tara Solomon, Chief Executive of Kaitiaki Kindergartens
For our team, the build was deeply meaningful. We weren’t just constructing a space, we were honouring a place that tamariki already knew and loved. Every element of the design was crafted with intention and our natural playground design features accessible pathways, sensory, natural materials, and flexible play zones that encourage exploration, creativity, and connection.
Since the Grand Opening Ceremony, the feedback has been incredible. Early childhood teachers have observed more collaborative play, and whānau have shared how the space reflects their shared values and vision for learning. This new natural play space has quickly become a treasured taonga within the Mahurangi Kindergarten community. A safe, inspiring, and developmentally rich environment for tamariki.
To support the longevity of the space, we provided a comprehensive Aftercare pack to help the Mahurangi Kindergarten team maintain their new space year-round. We’re proud to continue supporting Kaitiaki Kindergartens as they reimagine outdoor play spaces for early childhood education across their network. Projects like this highlight what’s possible when thoughtful design, strong partnerships, and nature-based learning come together in service of our youngest learners.
“We also want to express our heartfelt thanks to the whole team for pulling out all the stops to have the space ready in time for our opening ceremony. Your commitment and hard work made it possible for our community to celebrate and experience the new space together, and that meant a great deal to all of us.” – Tara Solomon