'...the purpose of the [strategy] is to...make cultural connections (linking communities and culture through recreation).'
Manukaii City Council Parks Strategy

Based on the brief of 'child's play with a focus u;' heritage', Chow;mil based the initial design of the playground on traditional games. Such games, passed down through generations are an important part of New Zealand's cultural heritage. For this exhibit, the game of marbles was chosen for its sculptural potential and ability to transcend all cultures.

The exhibit was Intended as an interactive sculptural interpretation of the traditional game of marbles, and as such it provided children with unstructured play opportunities. Such environments encourage play that requires creativity and imagination without the prescription of particular activities. The only limitation is the child's imagination. The second key aspect of 'learning' was the learning about traditional games from a global, cross-cultural perspective.

In creating the exhibit the New Zealand 'do it yourself mentality was explored. Traditionally, Kiwi's will stubbornly attempt to adapt existing elements before purchasing new ones. To this end, all the materials used in the exhibit were chosen for their natural qualities and used in a natural and un-engineered way.

Cor-ten steel was used, reminiscent of rusted steel left out in the back paddock for a number of years. The contractors were encouraged not to be too precious with the steel when moving it around the site, and as a result it ended up with a number of unique quirks, streaks and markings. A similar approach was taken with the Macroearpa timber elements.

All planting was selected from Pacific Rim countries, and there was an emphasis on native New Zealand species to illustrate that such plants can be used in a highly sculptural manner.

dates: 2004
values: consultancy $c20K construction c$160K (including relocation)
key staff: bridgit diprose, dave little
council procedures: involved a detailed understanding of Council financial processes and supplier provision contracts, a building consent and liaison with media and communications staff.
client contact: shona fisher (mcc), phone 262 8900 x8735