Over summer there were nesting Tui and Riroriro (Grey Warbler) in two of the trees. These trees provide essential shade and cooler temperatures than shade sails and rubber matting.

The July 2021 concept plan is wonderful (page 12): https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hCD3AlyKJk7wBKzFnXlnGNMKPI5Khosy/view

The November 2021 final plan is a synthetic nightmare (page 4):
https://drive.google.com/file/d/14GOPQU7_TgEg7Vcb2oONOYPG9ObgGFge/view

A new playground, with new native trees planted, can certainly be built in the current amphitheater area, which is under-used at the moment. 

The culture of throwing out and replacing things, and destroying trees in the process, models an unhealthy message to our children. The current wooden and metal structure with the slide, under the trees, is a solid structure needing some attention in places but it is much loved and fulfills a 'woodland adventure' aesthetic.

The proposed ex-tyre rubber everywhere is not a healthy environment to be creating. A balance is needed. Shade sails are not recommended by the Ministry of Education.