A group of play advocates eager to see more playful spaces around the region have begun the process of setting up Northland’s Play Coalition.

Owen Liiv, of IJ Playgrounds and Northland Football Club, got the ball rolling after seeing that the development of a play coalition is a priority within Northland’s regional strategy for play, active recreation and sport; Kōkiri ai te Waka Hourua.

The aspirations for this group are to further develop partnerships within the sector and to progress regional improvements in the planning and provision of play opportunities.

The Play Coalition is open to anyone interested in developing more play opportunities in Northland, from whanau, teachers and local community go-getters, right through to council members, private businesses and sports clubs.

Sport Northland’s Play Development Lead, Natalie Wilcock says “It’s great to see passionate community members driving play opportunities and development in our region. I can’t wait to see the projects that might come from having play advocates connect, inspire and brainstorm together through being involved in the Play Coalition.”

Why is play important? Play is important to the wellbeing of young people. It allows tamariki to experience fun, joy and laughter in a way that is important to them. When young people have access to enriched and varied playful experiences within their local environments, they develop a range of skills that will help them throughout their life.

Are you interested in being involved in the Play Coalition? The first Play Coalition meeting will be held on Thursday 14 July 2022 from 12:00-2:00pm at the Northland Sports House. Kai will be provided. Please RSVP to brittanyw@sportnorth.co.nz/