22 Jan 2026
A courtyard at the centre of Berhampore School in Wellington has been reimagined. Once a tired, concrete and brick-paved space, is now a vibrant, nature-rich playspace designed for learning, creativity, and connection.
Studio Pacific worked closely with the school to bring this project to life. Teachers helped shape the design brief, while tamariki shared their ideas in workshops – from gardens and tunnels to sand play, slides, nature trails, and fairy circles. These ideas became the heart of the design.
The playspace draws on the natural character of the site. Explorative paths wind through the space, creating a sense of movement and play. A timber whare tucked into planting offers a space for storytelling and quiet play, while balancing beams, stepping logs, willow tunnels and an embankment slide encourage more active exploration.
A raised kitchen garden bed supports hands-on learning, and a new outdoor classroom provides space to gather, draw, and learn outside. The paths between are gently sloped and accessible, lined with hardy native planting that adds texture, shelter, and colour.
This was a project made possible in part through community fundraising – a shared effort that reflects the strong sense of connection across the school.
