Support proposed plan to build playground in Gould Reserve Takapuna

We are Takapuna locals Jackie Kerridge and Chris Reeve. Our goal is to build and gift to the community, the first all ages and abilities playground in New Zealand at the Gould Reserve in Takapuna.

We ask that you consider our proposal and help us to fast track the development of this playground so it can be opened by December 2014.

We maintain that this playground will be funded by donations from the local community and will not cost the local board/council anything in the first instance.

The project was started due to frustration to both us and the wider community at the lack of effective quality play areas in the Takapuna Beach area. Through discussions with various people we have heard that over the last 6 years that the community and individuals have requested a playground in the Takapuna area overlooking the Beach.

North Shore City Council before transition to Auckland Council was looking at the options for a playground and 3 years ago new consultation was started to ask what was needed in the area, this consultation has resulted in more consultation and more engagement with no action.

As a community member we have taken action to research , consult and engage with the people in the area. We have spoken to 100s of people as to where the best place to have a playground would be. Gould Reserve near the toilets was the spot.

We then put a notice on our fence complete with pad and pen asking for peoples' thoughts and support. The response was overwhelming with over 100 letters of support, some also offering financial support and some offering physical support if needed. We even had a wonderful couple deliver a swing to our home. We only had one person not supporting the vision. 1 out of 200 + is not bad. It’s fantastic. This response has inspired us on.

Our vision is for a playground for life. A playground where regardless of your age or ability there will always be something fun to play on. Lets play together on this project and make it happen.