Kaikohe Memorial Playground

The Kaikohe Memorial Playground is a striking and thoughtfully designed destination in the heart of the town, built to honour local soldiers. It stands out as a fantastic example of a modern, inclusive play space that encourages imaginative and physical play for children of all abilities.

A thoughtfully accessible design – This playground prioritises inclusivity with a suite of well-considered features. The vast majority of the play area, including all the key accessible equipment, is covered in a firm, poured rubber surface. This provides a seamless and stable ground for wheelchairs, walkers, and unsteady feet, connecting the large, multi-level accessible play unit with ramps, the wheelchair-accessible swing, the ground-level trampoline, and the accessible merry-go-round.

Blending accessibility with adventure – To add variety and a different physical challenge, certain adventure-focused areas, such as the balancing beams and stepping pods, are situated on a soft bark-chip surface. This creates a distinct zone that complements the accessible rubber-matting areas, offering a more traditional play texture for those who seek it.

Imaginative and physical play – With a strong "castle and dragon" theme, the playground sparks creative adventures. Children can explore the large dragon structure, crawl through its tunnel, speed down the tall, enclosed tube slides, and challenge themselves on the varied climbing equipment. The inclusion of a spacious flying fox adds to the high-energy fun.

Essential amenities for a day out – The park is well-serviced for a comfortable visit. It features modern, accessible public toilet facilities (located in the adjacent domain), picnic tables, and shaded seating areas for parents and caregivers. Ample off-street parking is available directly next to the playground, including clearly marked accessible parking bays.

A community pillar of pride – Widely recognised as one of the best playgrounds in the Northland region, it is celebrated for its unique theme, robust and engaging equipment, and its commitment to accessibility. It serves as a vibrant, welcoming heart for the Kaikohe community and a drawcard for visiting families.