Why Claudelands Park

The Magical Bridge Trust commissioned Brodiehailwood to produce an Inclusive Playground Concept to transform the old, tired, existing destination playground located at Claudelands Park. The Claudelands Park playground was due for renewal by the Hamilton City Council. A partnership was formed with the Council whereby the budget allocated for the old playground's renewal was made available to the trust, which fundraised a further $2m for the phase 1 budget, to build New Zealand's first Magical Bridge Playground. Phase 1 is now open and is being enthusiastically received by the entire community. Funding for the last few items in Phase 1 is underway with a Givealittle page now receiving donations. Phase 2 funding is underway to add some key items such as a toilet block, musical lazer harp, accessible fitness zone, sensory dome, and artwork.

The Claudelands Park location was chosen from a range of options around Hamilton City but was identified as ideal due to its existing facilities including restrooms, accessible car parks, picnic areas, shaded seating, and mature trees. Claudelands Park is easily accessible by public transport and is located within a diverse community - surrounded by young and elderly residents. The existing mounding and zip lines in the park have been retained for the new playground.

Location

Claudelands Park is located near the corner of Boundary Road and Heaphy Terrace.  Car parks are available from either Gate 2 Heaphy Terrace or Brooklyn Road entrances. Pedestrians and cyclists can enter from Heaphy Terrace, Boundary Road, or Brooklyn Road. The park is adjacent to Claudelands Event Centre and has walking access to Te Papanui / Jubilee Park.