Innovative waterfront play space a gateway to Queenstown

A $1 million playground unveiled on Queenstown’s waterfront at the beginning of October is proving popular with young residents and visitors.

The family-orientated Queenstown Gardens Commemorative Playspace on the shores of Lake Wakatipu - which has new swings, slides, seesaws and climbing nets - took two years to complete the playground, which has new swings, slides, seesaws and climbing nets.

A fallen tree and rope swing that have entertained children for years at the site were retained.

The original budget for the play area was $670,000, but construction costs to meeting design and safety standards meant its cost rose to $1 million.

Before officially opening Queenstown’s first destination playground last month, Queenstown Lakes Mayor Jim Boult admitted to being "a little bit concerned" about the massive budget.

However, he went on to explain “but now that I see the joy that it brings and the added benefit to the downtown area - it's a really good thing."

Mayor Boult said the project’s high-profile central location meant a high quality facility was needed to align with the Queenstown Town Centre Masterplan.

He added “with a million locals and visitors passing by we wanted to provide an exciting, innovative and fun space for them to stop in and enjoy as a family.

“This playground will assist in creating a CBD that families want to congregate and spend time in, and celebrates the unique Queenstown environment.”

Reset Urban Design Director Garth Falconer advised that the playground had to meet strict compliances, but highlighted "we've kept a bit of adventure in it so that kids can explore and take risks.”

QLDC is now deciding a formal name for the playspace.

Images: Workers completing the Queenstown Gardens Commemorative Playspace (top) and the design of the playspace (below).