Octopus play ground

The Octopus play ground in Stoke, Nelson is known locally as Maara Wheke, Octopus's Garden, a name referencing wheke, the octopus, in te reo Maori. Equipment includes natural play features built from logs and rocks, a basket swing, a slide, swings, a supernova spinner and a half basketball court, on a bark surface.

Equipment

The basket swing suits toddlers, while the natural logs and rocks and the supernova spinner give slightly older children more to explore. Shade sails and trees cover some of the play equipment, seating and a picnic table.

Access and Inclusion

An inclusive basket swing with wheelchair access is among the site's standout features. A drinking fountain, picnic tables and seating are also on site.

History and Cultural

The octopus motif carries wider cultural weight in Nelson: a much larger iwi-led playspace under the same Te Wheke a Muturangi narrative is being built at nearby Rutherford Park in the city centre.

Practical Info

On-street parking is available nearby.