More Room to Play: Te Kura O Take Kārara Expands Outdoor Learning

Funding Stories

Te Kura O Take Kārara has become a true hub for the Three Parks community in Wānaka since opening its doors in 2020. What started with just 78 students has rapidly grown to 319 children enrolled, with a capacity for 400 and expectations to reach that number within the next couple of years.

As the roll has expanded, so too has the need for additional outdoor learning and play spaces for tamariki to enjoy. Te Kura O Take Kārara has been embarking on developing its next phase of outdoor learning areas. The new spaces build upon the success of the existing playgrounds, providing more opportunities for Wānaka's approximately 9,000 residents to gather, connect, and instil the school's values of caring, courage, and community in the next generation.

The school understands the immense value of naturalistic playgrounds that encourage physical activity, problem-solving, and inclusion for all kids. The initial playground and pump track - which opened in 2022 - are designed with this in mind, and the next phase carries this on. Both are designed to be utilised by the wider community after school hours, weekends, and holidays.