Last week as part of the National Recreation Awards, the playground was named joint winner of the Outstanding Project (over $500,000) award.
The Outstanding Project award was shared with two Tauranga-based projects: the Kōpurererua Valley Stream Realignment by Tauranga City Council, Bay of Plenty Regional Council, and Ngāi Tamarāwaho, and the Te Rere o Ōmanawa Project by Tauranga City Council and Ngāti Hangarau.
The playground had won the Playground of the Year (over $500,000) at the Park Awards 2024 earlier this year.
Judges highlighted the Caroline Bay based playground as a unique destination in Timaru.
They also highlighted that it was designed to appeal to a variety of ages, abilities, sizes, and interests, and featured an accessible design that allowed everyone to play together.
In a statement, CPlay volunteer Rose Fauth said they were thrilled to have even been selected as finalist for the award, but ecstatic to have been named a joint winner.
"This recognition means so much to our small team of volunteers, our supporters, and contractors.
"From the outset, our vision was to create a playground that was fun, accessible, challenging and meaningful for the community.
"We wanted everyone to feel part of the journey, and proud of the playground, and this award affirms that others see the quality of our work and the positive impact it’s giving."
She said the project was a true team accomplishment.
"Over the past year, it’s been rewarding to see the playground come alive.
"School groups use it for educational outings, families celebrate birthdays, and community groups gather for events — it has truly become everything we hoped it would be, and more."
She said watching people of all ages enjoy and engage with the space had been greatest reward of all.
"Thank you so much for this honour, and to every single person who contributed their time, support, and enthusiasm and is having a ball playing at the bay.
"Congratulations to everyone at the awards for making the finals, and contributing to our country’s recreation quality."
— APL
