A new enclosed playground has been especially designed for children who are ‘runners’ – those who tend to dash off when in open spaces – and neurodiverse children who can find busy parks overwhelming.

It is the first park of its kind in Lower Hutt.

The new play space, part of the wider upgrade of Naenae’s Walter Mildenhall Park which re-opened in September, was designed with safety and inclusion in mind.

Hutt City Council collaborated with community groups, parents, and accessibility advocates to make sure the design met a wide range of needs.

The result is a fully fenced area with sensory play equipment and varied textures and surfaces for neurodiverse children who often enjoy tactile experiences.

Elements such as spinning wheels, musical gongs and a rain-sound-maker encourage movement, exploration, and imagination.

The playground’s layout also helps families stay together, with good sightlines to picnic areas and nearby seating.

Neighbourhoods & Communities Director Andrea Blackshaw says the new playground reflects Council’s goal to create welcoming spaces for everyone.

“We wanted a playground where all tamariki can feel safe and included.

“It’s about more than just play – it’s about connection. Families can relax, share kai, and enjoy the park together knowing every child has a safe space designed for them.”

Sue Trueman, Health New Zealand’s Autism Coordinator, Child Development Service Hutt Valley, says they were delighted when Council approached them early in the planning phase of the park.

“They were genuinely keen to understand how best to build this park to meet the needs of neuro-divergent and disabled children and their families.

“Parents and whānau from our Spectrum Playgroup [for Autistic pre-schoolers] and staff from the Child Development Service at Hutt Hospital met with Council staff and discussed lots of ideas. The Council listened and have incorporated many of the features we suggested.

“The end result is a unique space which has done a great job of balancing the needs of various differently abled groups and their families. I don’t know of any other local park quite like it. I encourage families to come along and check it out.”

The new playground adds to the park’s growing reputation as one of Lower Hutt’s most family-friendly destinations.

Council hopes the playground will become a favourite spot for local whānau, offering peace of mind for parents and joy for tamariki.

Walter Mildenhall Park is next to the new Te Ngaengae Pool + Fitness Centre which opened in December 2024. It, along with the new Te Mako Naenae Community Centre, has helped bring the sparkle back to the heart of Naenae.

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