In the heart of Rānui, nestled around the Rānui Primary School, a quiet revolution was brewing, one that aimed to transform the neighbourhood into a haven of play and joy for its tamariki. This transformation was not merely about installing equipment; it was about igniting a spirit of community-led change, where every voice mattered, and every child's right to play was championed.

But why is play so important? Play is like a superfood for our minds and bodies. When we play, whether it's kicking a ball or building with blocks, we're not just having fun – we're also boosting our wellbeing. Playing helps us stay physically active, reduces stress, and makes us feel happier. It's like a workout for our brains too, helping us learn, solve problems, and get along with others. So, next time you're playing, remember, you're not just having a good time – you're also taking care of yourself inside and out.

The Rānui play journey began in 2023 with the Rānui Neighbourhood Play Systems (NPS), an awesome initiative aimed at understanding the play landscape within a 1km radius of Rānui primary school. Insight gathering sessions became the cornerstone of this endeavour, starting with the tamariki themselves. Their voices echoed concerns about safety, both in travel and the fear of stranger danger, which was putting a stop their freedom to explore their own neighbourhood.

Here's the amazing things that have happened because of the NPS mahi:

•  The Rānui Library, often a refuge for waiting children, lacked engagement opportunities. Responding to this, the Rānui Library Play initiative was born, generously funded by the Henderson Massey Local Board. Lego sets, chess boards, connect 4 and many more fun games were provided for students to come and have a play after school. It wasn't just about providing equipment; it was about fostering vibrant, interactive spaces for children to thrive.

• Empowered by the Tamariki’s insights, Rānui NPS was also able to take a proactive stance, directly influencing council decisions regarding the Rānui Domain playground revamp. The community's Wishlist was clear: fencing for safety, more shade, water fountains, and picnic areas. The local board embraced these suggestions, allocating additional funds to integrate them into the redesign.

• Collaboration became the hallmark of this transformation. Working together with the Rānui Action Project, Rānui NPS advocated for play across various spheres. From traditional housing to community events, the ripple effect of their efforts was amazing. Salvation Army housing received a much-needed injection of play equipment worth over $10,000, empowering 93 tamariki with newfound avenues of joy, thanks to Tū Manawa Active Aotearoa.

• But the impact didn't stop there. Rānui 135 received a Gear Up Box, filled with sports and play equipment, courtesy of the Grassroots Foundation - this contribution enriched the fabric of community play, especially for our Pasifika students attending Rānui 135.

• At Rānui primary School, the commitment to nurturing playful minds has flourished through strategic collaborations with Tū Manawa Active Aotearoa. With two successful applications under their belt, the school has embraced a holistic approach to play. The first initiative brought a vibrant array of general play equipment, from captivating music walls to enchanting bug houses and inviting mud kitchens. These additions have sparked creativity and spontaneity, fostering informal play among students. The second application, tailored for the Te Whakatipu Kakano Māori Immersion Unit, has deepened cultural engagement. Through the infusion of taonga tākaro and the provision of skilled facilitators for Mau Rākau and kapa haka, Rānui School honors its indigenous roots, ensuring that play transcends mere recreation, becoming a celebration of heritage and identity.

So what’s next?

Plans for playground markings and painted footpaths in Rānui domain take shape as Henderson-Massey board have agreed to fund this initiative.

In such a short time, Rānui’s world of play has been absolutely transformed and on the cusp of a playful renaissance. The key message had resonated loud and clear – play can happen everywhere; it takes the community to drive it.

In the end, Rānui's journey wasn't just about changing parts of the system; it was about igniting a collective imagination, where play became a main factor for social change. Through shared efforts and unwavering dedication, Rānui transformed into more than just a neighbourhood; it became a beacon of play-filled possibility, where every child's laughter echoed the promise of a brighter tomorrow.

Article added: Tuesday 19 March 2024