Internal project workshops developed the initial concept ideas, followed by workshops with students and teachers during later design stages

The key design driver was “an invitation to play for everyone” and focused on the concepts of inclusion, nature and sensory experiences. This inspired the design of multiple play zones throughout the school grounds to encourage challenging and collaborative play while addressing circulation flow issues of the existing school layout.

The design was informed by the school's cultural narrative of The Tree For the Nesting Birds - “Our kura and community is like a ngāhere where our children are sheltered and find the resources they need to grow” where the different play zones related to concepts of different activities of New Zealand native birds. The zones include a main adventure play playground, sand and water play, a remembrance space, pump track and a nature play area.

The playground aims to serve a role in the wider community as a place for people to come and enjoy with friends and families outside of school time, and where past students and families of students would feel welcome to return.

School principal Donna Buchanan says, "Our students and community love the playground. The sounds of children playing in spaces that reflect their interests, needs, ages and stages warms our heart. We have less playground problems because students have their needs met in so many different ways, in spacious and defined areas. The water race and sandpit are incredibly popular."