Article By: Helen Harvey, The Daily News • August 17, 2025
Each day over the summer months, up to 2000 people enjoyed the swings, water play, slides and everything else Destination Kāwaroa playground had to offer.
And, as of Friday, the $7.3 million Destination Kāwaroa was fully finished.
What began as a dream of a multi-generational facility was now a destination that rivalled any playground in the country.
The first stage of the 22,000m² play area, one of the Southern Hemispheres largest, was officially opened on December 18 last year.
The second stage of the playground included climbing frames, a wheelchair accessible trampoline, a carousel, a flying fox and two music balls ‒ one with whale sounds, the other birds ‒ is now complete.
As was stage three, funded by the Rotary Club of Ngāmotu, which included a range of free exercise equipment, native gardens, walking areas and picnic tables with checker or chess boards on them.
More than 85% of the $7.3m project’s cost was raised through public and philanthropic donations.
New Plymouth businessman and philanthropist Bryce Barnett spoke out about his dream five years ago. Led by Taranaki Foundation in partnership with Ngāti Te Whiti, New Plymouth District Council, and NP Partners, that dream was now a reality.
Seeing Destination Kāwaroa completed left him with a great sense of pride, Barnett said.
“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.”
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.