ECE Buyers Guide 2024

The Playground Builders

How to build an ECE playground in 2024.

creospace.co.nz

The Playground Builders

2

Welcome.

Congratulations on taking the time to learn about this exciting and sometimes overwhelming journey that is designing and building a playground.

In case you are not familiar with us, we design and build playgrounds – and we do it for customers all over New Zealand.

We’re here to act as a guide to help you find your bearing and navigate your way through the process.

If you’d like to see what our customers say about us, take a moment to check out our case studies page on creospace.co.nz/our-work

Our commitment is to inform and advise with honesty and transparency. It is our hope that at the end of this guide, you’ll be able to make an empowered decision with all the relevant information in hand.

Even if you don’t end up working with us, we want each step of the process from exploration, to design, to construction, to be a great experience. We feel this is the only way to operate in this modern information age.

Perhaps you are still unsure whether a playground design and build company is right for you. To explore the different options for designing and building a playground, see the summary table on page 6.

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Chapter 1

4.

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How much does a playground cost?

The cost of building an ECE playground in New Zealand in 2024 How much should I budget for my ECE playground?

How do I apply for funding?

How do I plan my design budget?

How do I plan my play equipment budget?

How do I plan my play surfacing budget?

How do I plan my site preparation budget?

Contents.

Budgeting Tip

Chapter 2

10.

Choosing the right type of playground for me?

Age Appropriate Custom Design Play Types Size and Space Indoor Playgrounds Flexible Play Areas Bike and Scooter Tracks Mounds Unprescribed Play Design Sandpits Social Spaces Investment guide What are the options for building an ECE playground in New Zealand?

Chapter 3

14.

Which playground companies are best?

Playground Designers Playground Equipment Suppliers Playground Surfacing Suppliers Full-service Playground Builders 5 reasons why Creo decided to become a Full-service Playground Builder A few testimonials from recent Creo customers

Chapter 4

17.

What’s the best way to build a playground?

Chapter 5

18.

What are some of the most common mistakes people make when building a playground?

Chapter 6

20.

Play Importance of play Sensory play Play value Unprescribed play

22.

About

4

How much does an ECE playground cost?

Chapter 1:

Right at the start, you need to know how much your new playground will cost.

In the video below, our Senior Playspace Consultant, Ben Witty, will discuss the main topics of playground pricing and the factors determining your need to budget more or less.

Scan the QR code or use this url link link to view: creospace.co.nz/new-playground-cost

Let’s explore in detail how much you will need to budget for your playground project. As you may have noticed, building a playground is not different from building a house. You need to consider several factors, such as size, level of design, location, and material.

The cost of building an ECE playground in New Zealand in 2024.

•

To build an early learning centre playground you will pay between

$

500 - 900

*

$

per m2

*

Based on equipment, surfacing, and civils

The Playground Builders

*

Based on equipment, surfacing, and civils

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creospace.co.nz

How do you budget for your ECE Playground?

If you want to build a playground that’s suitable for all ages and abilities, you can break your budget down into five main categories:

1.

Funding

2.

Design

3.

Equipment

4.

Surfacing

5.

Site Preparation

How do I plan for funding?

There are many ways you can get funding for your project, from local councils, local community groups and individual donors. It is also important to check with the Ministry of Education to see if there are programmes to fund new spaces for early learning centres.

There are a few steps that you can do to prepare yourself: 1. Identify the right funding source. If you are a private learning centre, donations from parents or fundraisers are great options to get your budget across the line.

4. Draft a persuasive proposal, including the benefits of the playground and how relevant it will be for the people who will read the proposal.

2. Assemble a plural team to engage with fundraising, such as experts in fundraising and community members.

5. Networking and media exposure are key for public institutions where you can draw attention and build meaningful relationships that will benefit your project.

3. Detailed plan and design to make sure you can raise the funds for your project.

RY NT H PAT

6

1000M 1 M FROM TRUNK T

73

25

The Playground Builders

5

22

340

35

18 14 85

70

1360

4310

32

3115

6915

1005

20

30

70

00

10

55

3480

10

50 40

58 0

10 79

3005

5

309 0

30

5

443

0

3025

How do5 I plan for my design budget?

1455

80 Design is critical to creating successful playgrounds. From the 37 early years, children learn through fun and engaging play.

Designing a space that aligns your equipment, surface, and landscape will make the playground become a place for learning, which children and teachers can benefit from. There are a few things you need to consider when budgeting your design: 1285

•

Do you want your designer to create multiple different 6730to choose from or just one design concept designs that fits your brief?

Obviously, adding more designs will cost more.

•

Will you bring any cultural or local themes into the design?

The more complex a design the higher the cost will be.

•

Will you work with a company that handles the design and the construction of your playground?

Working with separate companies can add to the cost of your project. Working with one company, reduces overhead costs, which can make your project less costly.

With a full-service playground company, such as Creo, you don’t pay for the design, but you must work with them for the construction of the playspace to be able to use the design.

1815 3415

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3335

REFER TO DWG LP08 AND LP08A FOR DETAILED SETOUT

0 REFER TO DWG LP08 AND LP08A FOR DETAILED SETOUT

How do I plan my play equipment budget?

Equipment is usually the first thing people think about when planning their playground. Playground equipment is important and adds play value to your space. That is why is so important to go through some due diligence before choosing what equipment you need.

Here’s a list of questions that will help you determine what you need:

•

•

Can you use some of the existing equipment?

If your existing play equipment is still in decent condition, you might be able to reconfigure, relocate, or reuse it, saving you from spending a portion of your budget.

What play types do you need?

There are many play types you can have in your ECE centre. Some of them are climbing options, unprescribed play, sliding, balance, and movable objects. So, you need to create a wish list of the equipment you really need.

•

Are there long lead times on the equipment?

Choosing equipment that is only available overseas can impact the costs. However, choosing locally-made equipment can reduce both lead time and costs.

•

What are the hidden costs of the installation?

These are things like freight of material and installation of the equipment.

•

What are the maintenance costs of the playground?

This ranges from surfacing to equipment to landscaping.

•

Do you want off-the-shelf equipment, or are you looking for something customized for your space?

This will impact lead times and cost.

•

What kind of materials do you want to use in your playground?

The materials used will greatly impact the cost. Are you wanting plastic, metal, or maybe wooden features?

•

Do you need to install shade?

In sun exposed places, it’s important to provide shade.

Shade sails will add an extra cost to your project.

•

Do you require outdoor furniture for your playground?

You may require seating for people who are supervising children in your playground. Other furniture could be bike storage or toy storage.

The Playground Builders

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How do I plan my play surfacing budget?

Play surfacing is often overlooked when people are planning a playground, but it makes up a significant part of every playground project. Therefore, it’s important to consider your playground’s surfacing at the same time you are working out your equipment and design needs. All these things together will have a bearing on the cost of your project.

• What is the existing surface condition?

If it needs a lot of clearing, demolition, or drainage work, it will add to the cost of your project.

•

•

Do you need your playground to be inclusive and wheelchair accessible?

Some low cost surface options are not suitable for accessible playgrounds.

What kind of ongoing surfacing maintenance are you okay with?

Some surfaces require more maintenance than others.

For example, wood chips need to be topped up annually whereas wet pour rubber surfaces require very little ongoing maintenance. You also need to keep in mind the age you are catering for. Usually for early learning centres, pebbles and wood chips can be a risk for children.

•

If safety surfacing is not installed, how can it affect adjacent play areas?

If you have a concrete bike track, for example, you will need to allow a fall area made of safety surfacing, which may reduce your play area.

•

Are you wanting to include surface mounds and topography play into your space?

Only a few surface options allow for this level of design.

•

Do you want a theme designed into your surface?

The more design you add, the higher the cost of the surface.

•

Do you intend on landscaping the surrounding area?

Adding garden areas around your playground adds to the character of your playground, but also adds to the cost.

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How do I plan my site preparation budget?

Before you can install equipment and surfacing, you need a site that’s ready to go. This is an area where the existing site can have a major impact on costs.

•

Is there existing equipment and safety surfacing that needs to be removed or disposed of?

•

Are there services like water, gas or power under the space that need to be worked around?

•

Are there any drainage issues that need to be addressed?

•

Is access into the space okay for trucks and equipment?

•

Will retaining walls need to be replaced or built?

•

Does pedestrian traffic need to be worked around?

•

Are there any existing trees and roots that need to be worked around or removed?

•

Can we install while the school is operating or do we need to work on school holidays?

Budgeting Tip! For the average playground budget, aim for the rule of thirds.

1/3 of your budget for equipment 1/3 of your budget for surfacing 1/3 of your budget for design, site prep, and project costs • DESIGN • SITE PREP • PROJECT COSTS

SURFACING

Think you’re ready to find out how much it will cost for your playground build?

Call us to book a 15 minute playground planning session with one of our consultants to get started.

0800 000 334

EQUIPMENT

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Chapter 2:

Choosing the right type of playground for me?

Now that you have a rough idea of how much your playground might cost let’s explore what type of playgrounds you can have in your early childhood centre.

Age Appropriate.

Size and Space.

The playground should be age-appropriate. For infants and toddlers, go for equipment with soft surfaces and sensoryrich activities that will foster learning through play.

The size of your playground should align with your available space. For small areas, consider vertical structures or multi-functional equipment.

Custom Design.

Customizing your playground can reflect your centre’s uniqueness. This could range from colour schemes to thematic designs that reflect local culture or educational philosophy.

Urban spaces might benefit from vibrant colours or citylife elements, while natural areas can be enhanced with organic materials and plants. Themed areas can create immersive environments, reflecting cultural stories or natural settings.

Indoor Playgrounds.

Play Types.

Incorporate a mix of physical (like climbing frames and slides), sensory (such as sandpits and water play), and imaginative play areas (themed or flexible spaces).

These are ideal for limited outdoor spaces or areas with extreme weather. Ensure the materials used are safe, soft, and non-toxic. Movable objects and modular play equipment are key to maximising the play and the space use.

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Flexible Play Areas.

Unprescribed Play Design.

Features like movable boxes or modular equipment allow for a dynamic play environment that can be altered throughout the year, keeping the space fresh and engaging.

Open-ended play spaces encourage children to use their imagination and creativity. These areas are inclusive, catering to a wide range of abilities and ages.

Bike and Scooter Tracks.

The choice of surfacing is crucial. Hard surfaces are more affordable but require a proper fall zone for safety. Alternatively, poured rubber surfaces, while more expensive, offer greater flexibility and safety. The design should include gentle curves and slopes to aid in skill development.

Mounds.

Utilizing natural topography like mounds can enhance the play experience, offering opportunities for climbing and imaginative play. They also help integrate the playground into the surrounding landscape. Mounds can also be installed and covered with poured rubber surfacing.

Sandpits.

These are excellent for sensory play and social interaction, allowing children to explore textures and engage in cooperative play.

Social Spaces.

Incorporating elements like huts, whares, or mud kitchens fosters social skills and cooperative play. These spaces create a community feel, teaching children about interaction and sharing.

Think you’re ready to start planning your playground build?

Call us to book your 15-minute playground planning session on 0800 000 334.

More resources: creospace.co.nz/surface-ece/ creospace.co.nz/ece-cost/ creospace.co.nz/ece-shade/

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Investment guide.

Water Play

Good

Better

Best

• Water tap

• Water tap

• Water tap

• Branch log

• Branch log

• Concrete stream with river rocks Sand Play • Above-ground sand pit • Built in ground level sand pit • Built in ground level sand pit with edging with designated entry/exits with designated entry/exits

• Incorporated water play

• Incorporated water play

• Rolled edges and sand pit cover Safety Surfacing

• Natural grass and cushion-fall

• Natural grass and cushion-fall

• Natural grass and cushion-fall

• Artificial turf and concrete

• Artificial turf

• Rubber safety surface with shock pad Play Equipment • Flexible set up area with • Flexible set up area with • Flexible set up area with movable equipment movable equipment movable equipment

• Bike track

Fencing

• Non-climbable mesh fencing

• Non-climbable mesh fencing

• Bike track • Mounds, slides and tunnels • Non-climbable mesh fencing

• Sound wall, bamboo, eucalyptus and glass fencing Pathways and Bike Tracks

• Compacted crusher dust

• Concrete

• Concrete

• Pour’n’Play (poured coloured TPV rubber granules with shock pad) Shade

• Trees

• Moveable umbrellas

The Playground Builders

• Trees • Fixed shade sails

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What are the options for building an ECE playground in New Zealand?

Desired Qualities for a Playground Build

Level of Design Speed of Project Project Efficiency Theme Customizability Low Initial Cost Play Value Low Project Management Requirements

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You may not yet know whether you want to manage your own playground project from start to finish, opt for an equipment and surfacing only playground, or work with a full-service playground builder who can do everything for you from design through to construction.

This quick overview outlines the differences between these three main options.

The Full-service Playground Builder Option

The Multi Company Option

The ‘No Design’ Option

Work with one company that does everything.

Work with a separate Designer, Equipment Supplier, and Surfacing Installer

Work with an Equipment Supplier and Surfacing Installer Only

The Playground Builders

Which playground companies are best?

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Chapter 4:

In this section, we’ll look at the various types of playground companies in New Zealand and outline what they have to offer. As you have probably discovered already, there are many different types of playground company out there which can be broken down into the following categories: • • • •

Playground Designers Play Equipment Suppliers Play Surfacing Installers Playground Builders

Playground Designers.

In New Zealand, most playgrounds are designed by landscape architects. These architects are skilled designers, and some have experience in playground design. However, it’s important to remember that they’re not specialists in playspace design. As landscape architects, their expertise is more general, covering a variety of outdoor spaces, not just playgrounds.

Landscape architects generally only supply designs.

Once they have completed that, you would work with a construction or landscaping company to build your playground.

Playground Surfacing Suppliers.

Playground surfacing services in New Zealand are generally provided by specialist surfacing companies.

Traditionally, bark and woodchip surfacing were the favoured play surfaces in New Zealand playgrounds, but recently, more modern rubber and PVC tile surfaces, with their high safety ratings and improved durability, have come to the fore.

Full-Service Playground Playground Equipment Suppliers. Builders.

There is a range of playground equipment suppliers in New Zealand and most of them import their equipment from overseas. Playground equipment companies will generally provide installation and will sometimes offer basic playground design and project management services.

Full-service playground builders are a new breed of playground companies in New Zealand. They have a specialised team of playground designers, engineers and a construction team. They focus on offering an integrated suite of playground building services from concept design to equipment procurement, project management, installation, and construction.

Some companies (like Creo) include bespoke equipment manufacturing and specialist play surfacing installation.

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Now that you have an idea of the types of playground companies in New Zealand, let’s look at why Creo chose to become a Full-Service Playground Builder rather than simply a design or equipment company.

3. We want to make building playgrounds super easy Until now, most playground building projects in New Zealand have been completed through the collaboration of individual companies.

5 reasons why Creo decided to become a Full-Service Playground Builder.

Traditionally, the playground industry in New Zealand has been rather fragmented. In 2016, however, Creo came on the scene with a more holistic approach to building playgrounds. Below are the 5 main reasons why we did this.

1. Most landscape architects don’t specialise in play When it comes to the various types of outdoor space design, most landscape architects are generalists.

They will take on playground projects, but that’s generally not their focus.

From working in the industry for many years, we saw what happens when inexperienced landscape architects design playgrounds. They were often great to look at but didn’t work from a play perspective. We felt the industry needed a company whose sole focus was playgrounds, from design through to construction.

2. We want to build playgrounds that inspire We love building playgrounds that inspire people. And to do that, we’ve realised you really need to be highly engaged at every level of the playground building process. That’s why we have such a diverse team of passionate individuals.

From landscape architects, 3D designers, and project managers through to carpenters, builders, and site managers, we have built an integrated team that works together to deliver fantastic results.

In the past, the typical project journey looked something like this: Firstly, you selected some play equipment from a local supplier, then you contacted a landscape architect to get a design done that incorporated your equipment, then you found a landscaper to create the space and install the equipment, lastly, you called in a surfacing company to install the safety surface.

This process delivered a result, but it was complicated and time consuming. With Creo, the process is far simpler. You provide the ideas and Creo takes care of the rest.

4. We want to provide assurance and peace of mind As described above, the alternative to working with a single Full-Service Playground Builder is to work with multiple companies. Often, that means working with landscapers, installers, and labourers who aren’t playground specialists.

Building a playground this way can obviously work, but it is more prone to mistakes which could make your playground unsafe. Working with one team that specialises in playground installation hugely reduces the chances of mistakes occurring. It’s another reason why Creo has opted for the Full-service approach, and you can have peace of mind that your Creo playground will be 100% compliant with the New Zealand playground standard (NZS5828:2015).

5. We believe in the Creo way We started Creo in 2016 to address all the above issues we saw in the playground building industry. Since then, we’ve seen first-hand the efficiencies and high-level results that can be achieved with our fresh approach.

Everyday, our designers, project managers, installers, and craftsmen work closely together to ensure each project is handled with the utmost care and attention to detail. Communication is fast and our projects run smoothly, which is something our customers really appreciate.

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Here are a few testimonials from recent Creo customers:

Scan the QR code or use the url link to watch the full video: creospace.co.nz/equippers-earlylearning-centre/

Scan the QR code or use the url link to watch the full video: creospace.co.nz/wana-excel/

“The Creo construction team and design team were pretty cutting edge.

They were doing things that hadn’t been done in other centres.“ Barrett Ruakere, Pastor

“Creo really knew what they were doing in terms of regulations...We’re here and couldn’t be happier!”

Josh Thomas, Managing Director

Scan the QR code or use the url link to watch the full video: creospace.co.nz/kristin-kindergarten/

Scan the QR code or use the url link to watch the full video: creospace.co.nz/kia-ngawari/

“There was good planning, good communications, and during the construction stage we were also kept well briefed.”

Nigel Wilkinson, Director of Business

“Whaea Anah, our kaitari. When she found Creo, that was the one to go with.

Because they had other examples of other papa tākaro. Other parks that are made at schools, at kōhanga reo, and we loved what we saw.”

Patrisha Emia, Caregiver

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Chapter 4:

What’s the best way to design and build an ECE playground?

This section will cover a detailed breakdown of the Creo process:

1. Site mapping with drone and 3D scan technology We meet you on site to talk through your ideas, budget, time constraints and to understand what you need from your site.

We then proceed to gather photos and use our drone to take 3D shots to map out your enitre space.

2. Concept design Here we sketch up one or two options for your playspace for discussion, before formalising the ideas and presenting you with a final plan and budget of the playspace.

3. Detailed design, and 3D render

5. Site preparation At the first stage of construction, areas are excavated, and the site levels are readied.

6. Construction Paths, structures and other items are created and a lot of material is brought to site to create the new space. Once complete, surfacing occurs. This process transforms the space from a grey construction site into a bright, usable area.

7. Finishing To complete, we finish off with any sanding, planting and the installation of any final items.

Design details are drawn to show how the site is to be constructed and with the help of our specialist team we can now present the concept in the form of a walkthough 3D render.

4. Equipment procurement, and manufacturing We gather and manufacture what we need, work out the timing of the build, access, staging and other preplanning to ensure the project runs smoothly.

Scan the QR code or use the url link to watch the full video: creospace.co.nz/great-design/

The Playground Builders

What are some of the most common mistakes people make when building a playground?

This section is designed to help you avoid some common mistakes people make when building a new playground.

Mistake #1: Often the user experience is overlooked.

When designing for a playground you should keep the end-user in mind. Visualise how the space is going to be used in the future. In this way, you can avoid any safety issues or discomfort that might arise and cause friction.

Some things to think about are:

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Chapter 5:

Mistake #2: The budget is not clear.

We’ve seen plenty of concepts and designs that were started without a discussion on the budget allocated for the project. Having an unclear budget can cause issues down the track and result in disappointment when the concept you love turns out to be out of reach. It can also create delays and problems when it comes to installation, causing corners to be cut that end up compromising quality and safety. This is why it’s important to agree on a budget from the very beginning stages of your project.

Some things that get overlooked when budgeting include: •

Site set up and security.

•

Demolition and disposal of demolition work.

•

Is there enough shelter from the wind?

•

Removal and dumping of topsoil.

•

Are there enough seating opportunities for the users?

•

Any retaining walls that need to be built to level the site.

•

Is there enough shade and is it in the right place?

•

Level and compaction of any base work.

•

Will the surfacing get hot in direct sunlight and burn hands and feet?

•

Drainage requirements to collect and drain any surface water.

•

Is the slide facing north? If so, it might get very hot in the sun.

•

Services like power, water, gas, etc that might run through the site.

•

Supply and installation of shade.

•

Landscaping, pathways, and planting.

•

Cleaning and rubbish removal.

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Mistake #5: Lack of flow and connection through the space.

Mistake #3: Non-compliance Issues.

Creating a sense of flow in your play space helps to bring a sense of wholeness to your area. Making sure there is a connection between different elements in the playground doesn’t just make the place look well thought out but also makes the life of the users easier and their experience more enjoyable. Some things to look out for include: •

NZS 5828:2015 covers a lot of details about the guidelines and standards that need to be followed. But here are a few areas that often get missed:

Are there sufficient sight lines around and through the space to maintain supervision?

•

Is the equipment arranged to provide graduated challenges?

•

Has sufficient safety surfacing been provided to cater for the different heights of the equipment?

•

Are there subconscious entry and exit points with logical flow between them?

•

Is there sufficient spacing between the equipment and hard surfaces to provide the required fall zones?

•

Is the equipment too spread out? This can make the play space feel quite empty and disjointed.

•

Has the design been thought through in terms of potential entrapments and any associated risks?

•

Are swings and other potentially dangerous elements positioned appropriately to minimize risk?

Mistake #4: Overlooking the need for inclusive equipment and making the playground accessible.

A decision needs to be made early in the design process about whether the play space will need to be accessible for all abilities. In this way, you can allocate your budget accordingly to account for appropriate features such as accessible play equipment and safety surfacing. When designing, here are some things to keep in mind: •

Do you have a range of equipment that can be enjoyed by various abilities?

•

How many inclusive play types do we have?

•

Can the inclusive play equipment be accessed by those that require mobility assistance?

Mistake #6: Sometimes the design is too focused on aesthetics.

Having a beautiful aesthetic is nice but focusing too much on the appearance of the space can sometimes jeopardise the play value. When designing a playground, you must keep the experience and utility of the play area in mind.

Ask yourself, has an appropriate portion of the budget been allocated to maximising play value? As opposed to something not playable like an expensive fence or water feature. Thinking about the end-user and how they will use the space is key to making sure your project is fun and exciting.

Scan the QR code or use the url link to watch the full video: creospace.co.nz/common-mistakes/

The Playground Builders

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Chapter 6:

Sensory Play.

Importance of Play.

Playgrounds are vital for early childhood development, offering more than just fun. They are a child’s first learning environment, where cognitive growth, physical development, social skills, and emotional well-being are nurtured.

Cognitive Growth Play is key for cognitive development. Simple activities, like pouring sand teach cause and effect, sparking curiosity and creativity. Jean Piaget, a renowned psychologist, emphasised the importance of play in understanding the world.

Physical Development Equipment like climbing frames and monkey bars are crucial for developing motor skills, coordination, and strength.

Social Skills Structured play with rules is important for teaching cooperation, empathy, and communication.

Emotional Well-being Unstructured play boosts independence, confidence, and resilience, as seen in the joy of children achieving on their own.

Play is ever-evolving, and your playground can pioneer these changes. Interactive technology, integrating learning with entertainment, is a future trend. Weather-resistant touch panels with educational games can be a great addition. Combining traditional equipment with innovative technology ensures a well-rounded play experience. In early childhood development, technology, if used correctly, can stimulate children to learn more and to have more fun.

Interactive play on indoor playgrounds is a great choice to teach the young ones through technology.

These types of spaces are not just about fun but also about learning. Elements such as textured paths and surfaces can stimulate the sense of touch, while musical instruments like drums or chimes can engage the sense of hearing.

One of the most compelling aspects of sensory playgrounds is their potential for inclusivity. Traditional playgrounds often present barriers for children with disabilities, limiting their engagement in play.

On the other hand, sensory playgrounds can be designed to be accessible to all children. Studies offer evidencebased recommendations for designing inclusive spaces, such as considering the physical design and when it comes to sensory playgrounds, the sky’s the limit! The options are endless, from tactile walls with different textures to water play areas that engage multiple senses.

Some other examples include: Sensory Gardens: Plants of various textures and smells.

Sound Stations: Different types of bells and chimes.

Visual Boards: Boards with various colours and patterns.

Colour and Patterns: Colours, patterns, and textures play a significant role in sensory play. Bright, contrasting colours can stimulate visual senses, while textures like rubber, sand, and grass offer a diverse tactile experience.

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Unprescribed Play.

Play Value.

Fun and Excitement Laughing and learning are key for children’s development.

Having elements that enrich these types of experience in your learning centre can be a great way of engaging the little ones in great learning.

Challenges Incorporating challenges, both physical and mental, such as climbing features and slides, encourages children to explore and push their boundaries. Using different materials and designing with height variation adds to these challenges.

Creativity Creative play nurtures imagination. Equipment like sand pits can be versatile, encouraging children to explore, and also being a sensory tactile experience.

Replayability Playgrounds should be designed to make children want to return. Diverse equipment and activities ensure each visit offers something new. Consider movable items and other games that will keep children engaged.

Unprescribed play rejects the traditional, predictable playground design, encouraging exploration and imagination. This concept focuses on open-ended play, essential for children’s development, allowing them to interpret and engage with their surroundings creatively.

Playgrounds should not be overly structured or restrictive. They should offer multiple play options and be interpretable in different ways. For example, a sandbox can be used for various imaginative plays, a tunnel can be an obstacle course, and a water feature can provide hours of open-ended learning.

Children are considered experts in play, and playgrounds should be designed to cater to their imaginative and explorative nature. Unprescribed play spaces give children the freedom to play in their own way, fostering fun and unique learning experiences.

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The Playground Builders

Playground designers made designs. Equipment companies supplied equipment. And surfacing installers laid safety surfacing. But no-one brought it all together to make playground projects easier for the customer.

About.

We are Creo. The playground builders.

So, in late 2016 Jacob and his team started ‘Project 360’, a playground building service that included playground design, project management, equipment installation, and safety surfacing installation.

Started in 2016, Creo was an outgrowth of established playground surfacing company, Numat.

At the time, Numat’s General Manager, Jacob Judd, saw a problem in the playground building industry that no-one was addressing. He noticed that while the industry had all the services customers needed to build their playgrounds, they were all spread out making projects difficult to manage.

MATT

BRUCE

Site Manager

Installer

LOFI

OLLIE

NESTOR

AMY

BRETT

Installer

Videographer

Installer

Consultant

Warehouse Team Leader

REFER TO DWG LP08 AND LP08A FOR DETAILED SETOUT ANGELO SHANE

LOUISE

ROB

JULIE

Design Team Lead

Installer

Marketing Assistant

JON

MISILEI

Site Manager Playground Carpenter REFER TO DWG LP08 AND LP08A FOR DETAILED SETOUT

GUI

5

RICARDO 175

VILI

30 25

DASHED LINES INDICATE EXISTING SITE EDGES

Marketing Team Leader

Installer

Installer

Warehouse Storeman

Marketing Executive

KELVIN

KP

JOEL

Landscape Architect

Graphic Designer

Design Engineer

73

25

NIMMI

Playground Consultant 22

20

30

70

10

820

19 1 935

23

creospace.co.nz

In 2017, the renamed Creo team worked on many projects including the design and construction of six early childhood playspaces, two school playgrounds, and a council playground.

Meet Our Team.

Our people are at the heart of everything we do.

Since then, the Creo team has grown to include playspace consultants, landscape architects, designers, project managers, carpenters, and installers.

Our team is passionate about building exceptional playspaces and making the playground building journey a fun one for our customers nationwide.

BEN

SUMMER

CHRIS

Installer

Consultant

Site Manager

GREGOR

MAREE

DOM

3D Modeller

Production and R&D

Warehouse Manager

Playground Carpenter

1495

DEO

BEN

MIKE

GLENN

Installer

Playground Consultant

Operations Manager

Project Manager

SHANNON

5795

GENER

290 5VAA

KEVIN 0 07

1 0

5045

96 5

4265

TER

N CE ED

126

Site Team Leader

Production Team Leader

5

Installer

SARAH

1815

GERSON

RY

CAREY

NT

HE

1645

WIT

Site Manager

KELVIN.F

550

5 105

188

00

20

H PAT

5

340

Installer

Consultant 50

3480

40

35

00

10

6915

ANDY

3115

REFER TO DWG LP08 AND LP08A FOR DETAILEDGeneral SETOUT Manager Site Team Leader

3335

Installer

JACOB

3415

1000M 1 M FROM TRUNK T

58 0

Projects Coordinator

1015

5 169

JOSE

7280

5

316

Re-imainge your ECE playspace in a collaborative process with Creo.

Contact our team and get your project started today.

Email us at:

info@creospace.co.nz or call:

0800 000 334

creospace.co.nz

The Playground Builders