Project Update - 19 August 2026
It's been a while since our last update. This is because some concerns were raised about parts of the playground design near a neighbouring property. As a result, we've needed to pause construction while we work through a solution.
Out of respect for the residents directly affected, we've been focused on working through those issues with them before providing a broader update to the community.
The good news is we're getting close to a resolution. Some elements of the playground will require redesign, and we're currently finalising those details.
We know this playground is important to the community and we're planning on getting construction underway again soon.
We'll share another update once the redesign has been confirmed and the next steps agreed.
Construction Update - 21 April 2026
Work got underway right on schedule, with the old playground now fully dismantled. Our contractor has been able to recover a good amount of timber from the site, which will be reused in the new boardwalk.
Like much of the region, recent weather has had a small impact, pushing construction back by about a week. The good news is that earthworks are now well underway and are expected to be completed by the end of this week.
Construction Update - 22 March 2026
Construction on the Tui Park, Bowentown playground refresh is set to begin on Tuesday 24 March.
Work will begin with installing temporary fencing and removing some existing timber edging so it can be reused where possible. The project will then move through removal of existing playground equipment, site excavation, installation of new features, and landscaping, with work expected to continue through April and May, weather permitting.
The work will be carried out by CGC Landscapes, a Tauranga-based contractor.
Please note, the playground and surrounding area will be closed an unavailable for use during construction.
This refresh has been shaped by ideas shared by the community during consultation in August 2025. Locals told us they wanted a mix of active play and natural elements, and within the available budget, we’ve been able to include:
- Big swings
- Baby swings
- A mini flying fox-style glider
- A climbing frame
- Natural play features like logs, rocks and balancing elements
The new design also makes the space easier to access, with a boardwalk and ramp, plus a rock seating area for tamariki to gather and play.
We’ll share more updates as construction progresses.
Main structure of the new playground
About the project
The Tui Park playground upgrade is part of Council’s ongoing playground renewal programme.
The existing play equipment was installed in 2001 and, while it has been a well-used and well-loved space, much of the equipment has reached the end of its life.
The total cost of the project is around $233,000, including approximately $110k for playground equipment and $123k for landscaping works, which includes the playground safety surfacing.
Funding for the refresh was allocated through the Long Term Plan 2024–2034.
Playgrounds play a huge role in helping our tamariki build confidence, stay active, connect with others and explore the world around them. This refresh will help ensure Tui Park continues to be a safe and welcoming place for the community.
Project Update - 19 August 2026
It's been a while since our last update. This is because some concerns were raised about parts of the playground design near a neighbouring property. As a result, we've needed to pause construction while we work through a solution.
Out of respect for the residents directly affected, we've been focused on working through those issues with them before providing a broader update to the community.
The good news is we're getting close to a resolution. Some elements of the playground will require redesign, and we're currently finalising those details.
We know this playground is important to the community and we're planning on getting construction underway again soon.
We'll share another update once the redesign has been confirmed and the next steps agreed.
Construction Update - 21 April 2026
Work got underway right on schedule, with the old playground now fully dismantled. Our contractor has been able to recover a good amount of timber from the site, which will be reused in the new boardwalk.
Like much of the region, recent weather has had a small impact, pushing construction back by about a week. The good news is that earthworks are now well underway and are expected to be completed by the end of this week.
Construction Update - 22 March 2026
Construction on the Tui Park, Bowentown playground refresh is set to begin on Tuesday 24 March.
Work will begin with installing temporary fencing and removing some existing timber edging so it can be reused where possible. The project will then move through removal of existing playground equipment, site excavation, installation of new features, and landscaping, with work expected to continue through April and May, weather permitting.
The work will be carried out by CGC Landscapes, a Tauranga-based contractor.
Please note, the playground and surrounding area will be closed an unavailable for use during construction.
This refresh has been shaped by ideas shared by the community during consultation in August 2025. Locals told us they wanted a mix of active play and natural elements, and within the available budget, we’ve been able to include:
- Big swings
- Baby swings
- A mini flying fox-style glider
- A climbing frame
- Natural play features like logs, rocks and balancing elements
The new design also makes the space easier to access, with a boardwalk and ramp, plus a rock seating area for tamariki to gather and play.
We’ll share more updates as construction progresses.
Main structure of the new playground
About the project
The Tui Park playground upgrade is part of Council’s ongoing playground renewal programme.
The existing play equipment was installed in 2001 and, while it has been a well-used and well-loved space, much of the equipment has reached the end of its life.
The total cost of the project is around $233,000, including approximately $110k for playground equipment and $123k for landscaping works, which includes the playground safety surfacing.
Funding for the refresh was allocated through the Long Term Plan 2024–2034.
Playgrounds play a huge role in helping our tamariki build confidence, stay active, connect with others and explore the world around them. This refresh will help ensure Tui Park continues to be a safe and welcoming place for the community.
