Te Āhuru Mōwai

The new playground at Memorial Hall park 399 Wellington road, Marton was officially opened in April 2021. Named Te Āhuru Mōwai by local iwi, Te Rūnanga o Ngā Wairiki Ngāti Apa, the playground was designed by landscape architect firm Boffa Miskell.

The playground has become a destination for locals looking for a quality play experience, but also for those travelling along State Highway 1 and for day-visitors from places such as Whanganui and Manawatū.

In October 2022 the playground was recognised on the national stage when it received an excellence prize in the ‘Education and Play’ category at the New Zealand Institute of Landscape Architecture Awards.

The playground was largely funded thanks to hard work and dedication from the MDG team (all of whom volunteer their time) who secured grants, sponsorship and donations to the tune of $1.5m. The Rangitikei District Council also contributed $37,000 to fix the underground infrastructure in the existing playground. And $50,000 from the Parks and Partnerships Fund of 2020/2021 towards the playground.

Te Āhuru Mōwai replaced the previous playground at Memorial Hall park, which was built in 1951.

Te Āhuru Mōwai o Tutaeporoporo (the full bi-line for the playground) means ‘the safe haven of Tutaeporoporo’. 

Tutaeporoporo is a taniwha that is seen as a friend and guardian of Rangitīkei land, waterways and people. Te Rūnanga o Ngā Wairiki Ngāti Apa also worked closely with the playground designers to develop art work which tells the tale of Tutaeporoporo and is woven throughout the play space. 

Play is an essential part of every child’s life. It’s vital for the enjoyment of childhood as well as social, physical and mental development.

Find a good playground and the entire family can be kept occupied for hours!

If you have a question about the new playground, please check out our Frequently Asked Questions.