Karenga Park Reserve

Karenga Park Reserve on Bennetts Road in Koutu, Rotorua, was completely renewed in 2024 after consultation with residents and tamariki, and the result leans into nature play alongside a distinctive set of structured equipment.

Equipment

A double play tower with a slide anchors the play area, alongside an accessible basket swing, a spinning carousel, and a waka design see-saw that nods to the importance of waka on Lake Rotorua. An interactive board game panel adds another activity, and nature play elements including tree logs, stepping logs, play tables, rocks and plants are woven through the layout. The earlier equipment on site also included a multi-play structure with a slide, standard swings with an infant seat, a deep dish rocker and balance logs.

Access and Inclusion

The accessible basket swing broadens the range of children who can use the playground comfortably.

Practical Info

Public toilets and a drinking fountain are on site. The renewal followed feedback that the playground should sit closer to the reserve's existing public spaces and reflect the local community and natural environment. Rotorua Lakes Council operates a smokefree policy here.