JOY COWLEY CHILDREN'S PLAYGROUND

The Joy Cowley Children’s Playground in Featherston is a landmark recreation space that brings the magic of storytelling to life through inclusive, custom-made design. Developed for the South Wairarapa District Council, this project moves away from standard playground equipment NZ typically sees, to create a bespoke literary landscape that honours the legacy of Dame Joy Cowley, one of New Zealand’s most celebrated authors.

Because Joy is a long-term local resident who now lives with significant vision loss, the playground specifically incorporates Braille and tactile elements, ensuring her stories remain accessible to a new generation of tamariki. By prioritising New Zealand-based manufacturing and innovative accessibility, the project has set a new national benchmark for socially-focused recreation.

This commitment to excellence is reflected in its recent recognition, as the playground is officially a Recreation Aotearoa Parks Awards 2026 finalist for the Playspace of the Year (Over $500K) category.