Proposed Enhancements for Pohe Island Playground
Setting a Goal
Creating New Zealand's most accessible playground at Pohe Island Whangārei, making it a beacon for accessible tourism.
Benefits of Accessible Tourism for Whangārei and Northland
Creating New Zealand's most accessible playground at Pohe Island would have significant economic, social, and community benefits for Whangārei and the broader Northland region, making it a beacon for accessible tourism.
1. Increased Tourism Revenue
- Families with disabled children and individuals with mobility needs often travel with companions, resulting in higher spending on accommodation, dining, transportation, and activities.
- Promoting Pohe Island as a leading accessible tourism attraction would draw visitors from across New Zealand and abroad, creating economic growth for local businesses.
2. Enhanced Reputation and Positive Publicity
- Becoming a model city for accessibility can elevate Whangārei’s reputation nationally and internationally. Whangārei would be featured in accessibility guides and travel reviews, attracting tourists who prioritize accessible destinations.
- Media coverage highlighting Pohe Island's accessibility could further enhance the region's profile.
Pohe Island Playground Whangarei
Proposed Enhancements for Pohe Island Playground
Creating a welcoming, inclusive, and accessible play environment for all children.
1. Wheelchair-Accessible Features
- Wheelchair-Accessible Swing: Allows children to swing while seated in their wheelchairs.
- Wheelchair-Accessible Seesaw: Enables children with mobility aids to play safely with their peers.
- *Already installed Wheelchair-Accessible Merry-Go-Round: Inclusive carousel that accommodates children in wheelchairs alongside others.
2. Sensory Play Areas
- Sensory Play Panels: Includes textured surfaces, moving parts, and tactile puzzles.
- *Already installed Musical Instruments: Ground-level instruments (drums, xylophones) for sensory exploration and auditory play.
- Sensory Paths: Textured walkways designed to provide different sensory experiences underfoot.
3. Ramps and Elevated Play Structures
- Replace steps with gently-sloped ramps to provide access to climbing towers and elevated play areas.
- Ensure interactive panels and activities are available at multiple height levels.
4. Pathways and Safety Surfacing
- Install smooth, non-slip rubber surfaces across all play areas to improve wheelchair mobility and safety.
- Ensure clear, wide pathways connect different areas of the playground avoid bark as it is not accessibility friendly
Clear Pathway Accessibility Recommendation
To ensure that Pohe Island playground is accessible to all children, including those who use wheelchairs, mobility aids, or strollers, I propose the following:
- Wide, Clear Pathways
Pathways should be designed to provide ample space for all users to navigate safely and comfortably. A recommended minimum width of 1.8 to 2.4 meters will allow for wheelchair users and others to move easily, including when passing in opposite directions. - Connection Between Areas
These pathways should connect all key areas of the playground, including entrance points, play structures, seating areas, restrooms, and other amenities, to facilitate easy access throughout the entire space. - Avoid Bark or Loose Surfaces
Loose bark or wood chips, often used as playground ground cover, can hinder accessibility. Instead, I recommend an accessible surface such as:- Rubberized safety surfacing
- Concrete or asphalt pathways with smooth, non-slip finishes
- Firm, compacted crushed stone with a stabilizing binding agent (if aesthetics or drainage concerns arise)
By implementing these recommendations, Pohe Island can become New Zealand's leading example of an inclusive, disability-friendly playground where children of all abilities can play, interact, and thrive together.
- Wide, Clear Pathways
5. Adaptive Swings and Slides
- In addition to a wheelchair-accessible swing, include:
- Bucket Swings with Harnesses for children who need additional support.
- Wide Adaptive Slides with gentle slopes and handrails.
6. Interactive Water Play Area
- Ground-level water jets with accessible activation controls (large buttons or sensors).
- Shallow splash areas designed to accommodate children with mobility aids.
7. Social and Rest Areas
- Shaded Rest Zones: Covered areas with seating for families and caregivers.
- Wheelchair-Friendly Picnic Areas: Tables with extended sections to accommodate wheelchairs.
- Gathering Spaces: Designated areas for group play and activities to foster social interaction.
8. Communication and Educational Features
- Communication Boards: Visual symbols and images to assist non-verbal children in expressing themselves.
- Educational Panels: Teach local culture, nature, and inclusive through interactive features.
9. Inclusive Play Programming
- Collaborate with community organizations to host events, such as accessible play days or sensory-friendly mornings.
Accessible Tourism
Benefits of Accessible Tourism for Whangārei and Northland
Creating New Zealand's most accessible playground at Pohe Island would have significant economic, social, and community benefits for Whangārei and the broader Northland region, making it a beacon for accessible tourism.
1. Increased Tourism Revenue
- Families with disabled children and individuals with mobility needs often travel with companions, resulting in higher spending on accommodation, dining, transportation, and activities.
- Promoting Pohe Island as a leading accessible tourism attraction would draw visitors from across New Zealand and abroad, creating economic growth for local businesses.
2. Enhanced Reputation and Positive Publicity
- Becoming a model city for accessibility can elevate Whangārei’s reputation nationally and internationally. Whangārei would be featured in accessibility guides and travel reviews, attracting tourists who prioritize accessible destinations.
- Media coverage highlighting Pohe Island's accessibility could further enhance the region's profile.
3. Community Inclusivity and Well-being
- An inclusive playground fosters a sense of belonging for both residents and visitors, showing that Whangārei values equality and inclusion for all.
- Families who have disabled members will feel welcome, knowing that Whangarei offers a facility where all children can play and socialize together. This inclusivity can strengthen community pride and cohesion.
4. Economic Development Opportunities
- Businesses may be encouraged to improve their own accessibility in response to increased demand, leading to a more inclusive local economy.
- Opportunities for partnerships and collaborations may arise, including events, sponsorships, and programs centered on accessibility and inclusion.
5. Alignment with National and Global Accessibility Goals
- Many countries, including New Zealand, are prioritizing accessibility in line with commitments to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD). Whangārei's leadership in this area can position the region as a key player in promoting accessible infrastructure.
6. Year-Round Appeal
- Accessible tourism is less seasonal than other forms of tourism, as families with disabled members often plan travel year-round to visit destinations that meet their specific needs. This can help maintain a steady flow of visitors during off-peak times.
By making Pohe Island playground a flagship for accessibility, Whangārei can harness these benefits, enriching both its economic vitality and its standing as a leader in inclusive tourism and community development.