A sizeable grant from the Otago Community Trust is a big step towards funding an upgrade for the Oamaru Public Gardens playground.

Otago Community Trust was pleased to award a $56,000 grant to Waitaki District Council in March this year. This grant will contribute to the first stage of the project, which it was anticipated to cost $280,000. 

The first stage will be to replace the paddling pools. The existing paddling pools are leaking and need to be removed. These are to be replaced with an accessible water feature in the playground resembling the North Otago landscape, including the Waitaki lakes and river systems, which will require water activation through push buttons, trip values and pumping actions. 

The water course would also be able to be manipulated with a variety of damming mechanisms and will also feature some historical occupations within the North Otago area. The overall concept is to encourage exploration, learning and cooperation in play for all abilities.

The bespoke concept design is unique to North Otago artist, Dugal Armour who will also execute the build.  

The Oamaru Public Gardens are registered as a ‘Garden of Significance’ and have welcomed, entertained and inspired people for more than a century. Officially opened in October 1876, the Oamaru Public Gardens are among the oldest in the country.