Homai Outdoor Learning

The vision for this large outdoor area was to provide the opportunity for blind and partially sighted students, aged 0-21, to maximise their independence and participation in the world. In this place, both tamariki and rangatahi would experience what every other child enjoys outside - the chance to walk, run, ride, explore, be physically challenged, take risks and build self-confidence through play, in a supported environment. To that end the brief included the provision of areas for physical play and fitness, bike riding, ball sports, walking, gardening and exploring. The design by Get Outside is based around a 100m long walking path as a central spine. This path is intersected every 10m by trails that lead through natural areas to various engaging play destinations; from play areas to fitness machines, from fire pit to sound and water features, from vege gardens to quiet areas for contemplation; in order to encourage the students to be mobile and expand their capabilities and experiences. A 200m long one-way bike trail extends around the perimeter of the fields for blind students to explore with wheels, at speed, to encounter risk and adventure. Designer Jill Rice worked closely with BLENNZ staff to incorporate “way-finders” such as changes of texture, strong contrasts, bright yellow posts and a regular layout of paths to ensure students could successfully navigate the large area. The concept for the design is also informed by the natural features and local stories of the environment such as the presence of Pukeko, and two nearby maunga that are of significance to the local iwi. Large sculptured eggs, pebble mosaics, a terraced mound and a grassy amphitheatre bring these unseen treasures to life for the visually impaired students. Open since 2015, BLENNZ staff tell us that every little bit of the park is well-used and enjoyed by the students!