At CPlay, our commitment goes beyond just creating playgrounds; we strive to build sustainable and environmentally friendly spaces that inspire and connect communities. Our recent project at Caroline Bay Destination Playground stands as a testament to this ethos, showcasing our dedication to sustainability and quality in every aspect of our work.

We tool a holistic sustainability approach to utilize environmentally friendly materials and optimize our project's environmental footprint from production to installation. Our playgrounds themes help our locals and visitors connect with the world around us to be better guardians and caretakers" - Roselyn Fauth CPlay Volunteer

From the outset, our mission was clear: to create a space that not only provided fun, inclusion, challenge and meaning,  but also honored our commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.

One of the most fulfilling aspects of this project was witnessing the integration of nature elements into the playground design. By immersing visitors in the interesting geology, flora, and fauna, we aimed to foster a deeper connection with the environment. It was inspiring to see how these thematic elements not only provided entertainment but also served as educational tools, helping people learn about the importance of sustainability and environmental conservation.

Throughout the project, sustainability was at the forefront of every decision. From the selection of materials to the repurposing of old playground equipment, every effort was made to make choices and find solutions to minimize our environmental footprint. We achieved this by partnering with contractors and suppliers who shared our commitment to eco-friendly practices.

"One particularly gratifying initiative was the recycling of old playground rubber. Watching the old rubber tiles being ground into granules and reused in the new playground safety surfacing was a testament to our dedication to sustainability. Not only did this initiative prevent waste from ending up in landfills, but it also saved on costs, demonstrating that environmentally friendly practices can also be budget-friendly." - Roselyn Fauth CPlay Volunteer

"It was also been wonderful to see the themes come together in the play space so people can have a deeper understanding of where they live and who they are, to be better caretakers and guardians of our people and place. We are seeing a curious mindset evolve, people engaging in education classes at the playground and visiting Timaru District Council facilities like the Museum, Gallery and Library to learn more." - Roselyn Fauth CPlay Volunteer

As volunteers and representative of the local community, seeing the impact of our efforts firsthand was incredibly rewarding. Knowing that our playground would provide a safe and fun space for future generations, while also promoting environmental awareness, fills us with pride. We hope that our project will inspire others to prioritize sustainability in their own endeavors, creating a brighter and more eco-conscious future for us all.

Reasons why sustainability was important to CPlay:

• Environmental Impact: Reduce pollution and carbon emissions.
• Longevity: Build to last, saving money and reducing waste.
• Health and Safety: Use non-toxic materials for child safety.
• Resource Conservation: Reduce waste and repurpose materials.
• Energy Efficiency: Lower operational costs with efficient features.
• Water Management: Manage storm water and reduce runoff.

Our goals:

• Sustainable material selection
• Repurposing for sustainability
• Themed with nature and the stories around us
• Fostering environmental awareness
  
  
  

Sustainable Sourcing:

• The site had to be scraped to provide a strong foundation. River run from 15 minutes up the road was brought in and compacted. As well as improving the sites stability, we could also improve the drainage on site, as it is the lowest point at the bay and floods in rain events. The sand that was carted away will be prepared by our earth moving contractor to use on future civil work.
• The earth moving contractor plants trees to help off set their carbon.
• We chose concrete over asphalt because it would last much longer and reduce waste and maintenance over the playgrounds life.
• Over 95% of the equipment was locally crafted in New Zealand, reflecting a commitment to domestic production. Likewise, all the playground equipment were expertly fabricated with a focus on durable and low-maintenance design, with readily available spare parts, all manufactured in NZ.
• Playground rope from Germany was carefully chosen, for its durability and sourcing of materials from sustainably sourced, recycled, and recyclable materials. The rope went through rigorous testing against competitors, ensuring top-notch quality. Playground Centre conducted independent tests and reports to compare the performance of this specialized rope against their various competitors, confirming its exceptional wear resistance and guaranteeing the use of the highest quality materials.
• The Shipwreck and Lighthouse slide tower were constructed with New Zealand pine timber, sourced from sustainably managed forests, reducing environmental impact. Choosing locally sourced pine over imported hardwood reduced freight content and supported sustainable forestry practices. Approximately, 900 lineal metres of pine timber were thoughtfully incorporated into the Shipwreck and Lighthouse tower designs.
• The timber of the lighthouse and sections of the shipwreck were triple coated in Resene Eco Paint by Resene accredited Eco Decorators to protect from Caroline Bay's salt air and increase the life of the product and reduce toxic chemicals in paint surfaces, promoting a healthier environment for children and minimizing pollution risks.
• The steel, and aluminium substructures were chosen for their strength, durability, and recyclability. They were triple coated to protect the surfaces from the Caroline Bay salt air. The aluminium used in majority of the Caroline Bay playground equipment were sourced from New Zealand smelters, ensuring 100% recyclability. Offcuts and scrap were recycled, minimizing waste, and maximizing resource efficiency.
• UV-resistant plastics for superior fade resistance and are fully recyclable at the end of their lifecycle and sources and manufactured in New Zealand. The UV stabilizers, undergo rigorous rigorous testing by BRANZ for superior fade resistance compared to imported alternatives. At the end of their lifecycle, these plastics are fully recyclable.
• We chose a mix of metal and timber to take advantage of sourcing, manufacturing process, durability, and end-of-life considerations. Both materials can be sustainable options when sourced responsibly and managed throughout their lifecycle.
• The small rubbish bins were replaced with larger rubbish and recycling bins to encourage people to keep the playground litter-free, reducing rubbish and  pollution.
• We have incorporated gardens and mulch including native plants to help restore the soil and ecology of the area.
• We incorporated natural play elements like rocks and logs to help foster a deeper connection with the natural world and the ocean only 60m away from the playground.

Repurposing for sustainability

• In 2023, the 29 year old rubber from the old playground was pulled up, taken to Creo/Numats Oamaru recycling plant and broken down into crumbs so it could be re-used in the new playgrounds black safety surfacing's. CPlay was proud to be the first playground in the country to be able to do this, skip the landfill and re-use. Rubber granules in the safety surfaces, are non-toxic ensuring the playground remains safe for children while minimizing environmental impact.
• We re-sited the rope pyramid and renovated the 1960s nostalgic yellow horse, and kept the metal slide in the embankment.
• Old furniture was refurbished and re-sited.
• We worked with local manufactures to design and create new furniture, such as benches and super large accessible table.
• Other equipment was removed so it could be re-used at the discretion of the Timaru District Council. 
• Timber from the Ports old wharf was gifted and shaped for boat shaped furniture in the playground. 

Environmental Themes

The playground design and themes were inspired by Caroline Bay and the Timaru District. We have special environment here that we can be better guardians and caretakers of, which can be inspired through awareness and deeper connection.

• Our playground themes start with 50 million year fossils from the evolution of Zealandia. (icons in the surfacing and information signs)
• South Islands most recent volcanic activity at Wapouri (Mt Horrible) 2.5 million years ago that offered habitat to marine life. (themed obsitical course to the floor is lava with symbols of fault line and lava source).
• The layers of loess (glacial dust) at our cliffs, which are some of the most extensive and best examples of loess deposits in the world. A scientific paper produced in the 1890s is still referred to by scientists today to better understand the past and future changing climate. These cliffs are at the bay and playground. (Lines in the lighthouse mound symbolic of the cliffs layers).
• Creation stories and mahika kai from local Maori. (A representative from Arowhenua joined our committee to provide information, inspiration, idea and help make decisions.
• Inclusion of lost species like the moa, introduction of pests like rats and mice to explain the impact on our animals in the area.

Advocates for the environment

• We worked along side the South Canterbury Museum, Aigantighe Art Gallery, Timaru District Libraries, and Te Ana Rock Art Centre and Environment Canterbury to understand the environmental education they provide and incorporate ideas and themes into the playground.
• We met with Venture Timaru to understand what Tourists wanted to experience and learn while at the playground.
• We met with educators to learn about the New Zealand Curriculum to understand the education requirements.
• A volunteer did the National Geographic Explorer Mindset course to inspire learnings into the playground project.
• We produced resources to help educators share information and to use the play space to deliver it.
• We guest spoke to clubs, work places, schools and and held free guided tours with the community around the playground.
• We fundraised at Eco Car Washes and created playground fun for Sea Week events.
• We comissioned and included art from children to professional artists to share ideas and themes on the world around us.
• We developed information signage to share knowledge relevant to the playground and area.
• Developed a website with all the raw sources and a summarised version, and ran social media posts and live video to share the stories and knowledge.

 

 ABOVE: CPlay volunteer Roselyn Fauth with daughters Medinella 8 and Annabelle 4 visited the new recycling plant to see the old rubber go through the recycling process.

• Caroline Bay Playground construction began in March 2023, clearing the site for earthworks in April.
• Old rubber from the playground was recycled at Creo/Numat's Oamaru recycling plant.
• Rubber was shredded and ground into granules, reused in the base of the safety surfaces.
• 400m² of the matting was removed from the Timaru playground, and about 2500m² was being put down.
• CPlay chose recycling for budget and eco-friendliness, aligning with playground's environmental focus.
• Playground's play surface investment prioritizes safety, sustainability, and accessibility.
• Creo/Numat's Pour’n’Play® product, 100% recycled rubber, was selected for the surface.
• When the rubber is no longer needed, it can be removed and recycled again.

ABOVE: Removal of the old rubber tiles that were installed by Numat 28 years ago at Caroline Bay.

The recycling process involves shredding the rubber into small pieces and grinding them into granules of various sizes. These can then be used as a base for playground surfacing or mixed with a binding agent to create a more solid safety surface.

Roselyn Fauth CPlay Volunteer said she was so happy they good re-use the rubber, as the option to recycle is better our environment and our budget. "Our CPlay team are looking for ways to stretch our budget further. This solution was a win win,  we could reduce the cost to remove the old surfacing, and choose a more environmental option to re-use it. We have so many environmental messages in our playground story, it makes sense to practice what we preech." 

The play surface is a significant investment of the CPlay project, and it is key to reduce the risk of injury, meet safety standards set by New Zealand regulations, be easy to clean and maintain so it lasts longer, and be accessible to all abilities, including those with physical, sensory, or cognitive impairments.

 

The CPlay team wanted a play surface made from sustainable materials. Creo/Numat's Pour’n’Play® product is non-toxic and made from 100% recycled rubber shockpad and coloured Rosehill TPV top layer. It can be recycled when necessary, and maintenance involves basic sweeping and cleaning with mild detergent and cold water. The surface can also be recycled into the base layer for sports fields and playgrounds at the end of its life. 

 

 

ABOVE: Roselyn Fauth and her daughters got a tour through the new plant to see the process and how the granulator worked.

 

 

As a CPlay Volunteer and a representitive of local rununga, I am thrilled that Nutmat were able to accept the old rubber to recycle and re-use. I hope we can inspire other groups and businesses to consider their environmental impact, and where possible choose the better option for our taitao (environment) and hapori (community). Recycling initiatives like this one are important to reduce waste and pollution. - Francine Spencer, CPlay Volunteer and Rununga Representitive.

The Creo/Numat recycling plant is known for its innovative recycling methods and has been working with local authorities and businesses to repurpose waste materials for over 30 years. The recycling of the old playground surface is just one example of how Creo/Numat and CPlay are helping to reduce waste and promote sustainable practices in New Zealand. 

 

Mayor Nigel Bowen said he’s thrilled CPlay’s new playground surface will be made from the recycled rubber, which will be able to provide a safe and fun space for the next generation. “Timaru was the first city in New Zealand to implement the three bin system, so it seems fitting that we are now the first in the country to repurpose CPlay’s former playground rubber and reuse it for CPlay’s new playground.”

ABOVE: The final granule product, ready to be bagged, stored and transported up to Timaru to re-use at the new playground in the base shock pad layer.

If you wanted to learn more about the product from Numat that we are using, you can check out these links: numatrec.co.nz/product/pournplay

 

 

 

Out with the old rubber

 

 

Ready to load up onto a truck and deliver to Numat's recycling plant in Oamaru

 

 

 

 

Medinella Fauth, 8 years old holding some of the rubber crumbs that are being used in the Caroline Bay playground shock layer. The rubber has been supplied and installed by Numat. - Photography by Roselyn Fauth