Whakatū Nelson’s new playspace at Rutherford Park, inspired by the cultural narrative of Te Wheke a Muturangi, will start construction next week.
In May 2025, an 18-month progressive design and build process began under the leadership of the eight iwi of Te Tauihu, with funding of $3 million. This includes $613,000 from Nelson City Council’s Long Term Plan and $2.4 million from central government’s Better Off Funding.
The final design, created with the help of a continuous community engagement process that generated more than 500 submissions, draws strongly on the natural landscapes of Whakatū and the cultural narrative of Te Wheke a Muturangi.
Deeply connected to the people and places of Te Tauihu, this narrative provides structure and meaning for the playspace, with the form and movement of the wheke (octopus) inspiring the layout and how different play experiences unfold across the site.
The playspace design has been led by Isthmus, working in close partnership with iwi to create a unique space that speaks to its surroundings and celebrates the identity of Whakatū.
With the design signed off and resource consent granted, local Nelson firm Kūmānu, which formed part of the design and build consortium, will lead construction.
Te Ātiawa o te Waka-a-Māui chief executive Justin Carter says the milestone highlighted the strength of iwi-led delivery and partnership with council.
“This project shows what’s possible when iwi take a leadership role, and partners work together for the benefit of the whole community. The outcome is something we simply would not have achieved through a standard process.
“The design has embraced our narratives, been shaped by our people, and celebrates what makes this place unique. It’s a shared space that our community will know as their own.”
Nelson City councillor James Hodgson says the start of construction was a significant moment for Nelson families.
“This playspace has been a long time coming. People have been calling for a truly great destination playground in the city for more than a decade,” says James.
“Play is about wellbeing, connection and creating places people want to be. This project shows how much stronger the outcome is when council works in partnership with iwi to deliver something with real character and identity - something that is distinctly Whakatū.”
Many of the most requested features have been included in the final design, including shade, seating, toilets, fenced areas, adventure play, and accessible facilities.
Enabling works will commence on Wednesday 28 January 2026, following an iwi-led dawn blessing for the site. The playspace is expected to be open in time for summer 2026/2027.
