Leamington is set to come alive on Saturday, July 5, with a community celebration to officially reopen the new Leamington Domain playground. The event will run from 10am to noon and promises a fun-filled morning for the whole whānau.
Locals are invited to join in the festivities and enjoy free miniature train rides, a free sausage sizzle thanks to FreshChoice Leamington, a scavenger hunt, colouring in and plenty of time for tamariki to explore the new play space.
Construction started in February, and Waipā District Council community services manager Brad Ward acknowledged the patience and support of the domain’s lessees and users during the works - particularly the miniature train group, whose operations were paused throughout.
“We really appreciate everyone’s understanding,” said Ward. “We know the community are excited to check out the new playground and eager to see the miniature trains back in action. We’re stoked their first day back is part of the celebration.”
The playground design was developed in partnership with Ngāti Koroki Kahukura and Ngāti Hauā, drawing inspiration from Leamington’s rich cultural and horticultural heritage, including its connections to the river.
“Inspiration came from traditional Māori gardening and horticultural practices that the area was well-known for,” said Ward.
Mana whenua artists Kauri Winikerei and Te Aroha Tauroa developed the artwork designs, which were adapted by playground designers Brodie Hailwood and brought to life by artist Jeremy Shirley. Winikerei and Tauroa’s work is woven throughout— from the rubber surfacing and swing frames to playful steel vegetable sculptures and painted marker posts.
The playground offers something for all ages — from a large rope obstacle course to a toddler mound and slide, a kumara flower bowl spinner, trampolines, timber hut, musical elements, and a three-bay swing set.
“The celebration is a full-circle moment,” said Ward. “This playground is a direct outcome of the community’s feedback during the Leamington Domain Masterplan process in 2023. We hope this space, with its focus on water, sand, and nature play, will be treasured by Leamington families for generations to come.”
To honour the site’s legacy of growing kai, Amber Garden Centre has generously donated 150 seedlings of carrots, peas, and strawberries to give away on the day.
“It’s shaping up to be a fantastic day out,” Ward said.
There will be limited parking available during the event off Scott Street, so attendees are encouraged to walk, bike or scoot to the event if possible.
