3D-modelling was used to understand building volumes and the effects on planting, with simulated sun studies developed for different times of day and year. Extensive planting design workshops were held with the client team to refine the plant palette.

Native and exotic plants were chosen to create a tropical rainforest feel in Auckland’s wetter, more temperate environment. While some plants were able to be confirmed early and grown on, much was flexible to the end and overplanted at tight spacings to provide the experience of a mature forest setting.

The playspace was designed to appeal to a wide range of age groups, providing a fun, challenging and visually appealing area for children to enjoy whilst their parents shop, chat and relax in the surrounding eateries. The centrepiece is an architectural timber and rope climber, set into an undulating mounded landscape. Tunnels through the mounds entice younger visitors to explore the ground plane, while rock climbing holds provide challenging routes up the mounds and over the tunnels, culminating in a wide slide to zoom back down again.

Stylised reeds interwoven with timber steppers add climbing/balancing challenges to the edges of the space, with integrated lighting adding twinkles of starlight for evening play.

Comfortable timber seating and daybeds set into the surrounding lush planting encourage parents and children to linger and enjoy the whole entertainment precinct.