The conversation around playgrounds often centres on one topic: "How do we get children off screens?" While that is certainly an important discussion, I believe it misses something even more fundamental. The true value of playgrounds is not simply that they encourage physical activity or reduce screen time. Their greatest value may be that they reconnect children with other children. Human Connection by Design When we think about playgrounds, we often focus on the equipment i

Is CCA treated Timber Still Suitable for Playgrounds? Understanding the Risks and Safer Alternatives In New Zealand, nearly all playground timber supplied by major NZ manufacturers is treated to H4 or H5 levels using Chromated Copper Arsenate (CCA). While this preservative treatment is common locally and effective in preventing timber decay, it does not align with international best practice — particularly regarding health and safety standards for playground environments. Hea

A Call for National Consistency in New Zealand Playgrounds are purpose-built environments for children. They are designed to support physical development, confidence, social interaction, and imaginative play—often for our most vulnerable age groups. Because of this, playgrounds are rightly held to a higher safety expectation than many other public spaces. One risk that continues to cause confusion, inconsistency, and preventable harm across New Zealand is the presence of dogs

Learn why playground signage is essential for safety and compliance. Discover NZS 5828 / EN 1176 requirements, recommended content, placement tips, and Playsafe’s expert guidance.

Playgrounds are a great place for children to have fun, explore, and build their physical and social skills. However, it’s important to be aware of the potential hazards to ensure that playtime is safe for every child. The following are essential protocols for parents and caregivers to ensure your children Play Safer at your next playground visit! Check the Equipment - Before letting children play, take a moment to inspect the equipment and make sure it’s in good condition. C

As parents, we all want our children to explore and enjoy the great outdoors, but we also want them to be safe while doing so. Unfortunately, slips, trips, and stumbles are all too common in the outdoor play environment and can result in serious injuries. However, there are things you can do to minimize these risks without inhibiting your child's natural curiosity and exploration. One of the reasons children are more prone to slips, trips, and stumbles is that their legs are

When it comes to playgrounds and specificlly pre-school centres, safety should always be the top priority. This includes ensuring that the environment is free from any potential hazards, including harmful plants. While plants can provide a lot of benefits, such as improving air quality and creating a calming atmosphere, some plants can be dangerous, especially to young children who may be more vulnerable. Some plants can cause skin irritation, poisoning, or allergic reactions

Understanding playground safety terminology doesn't require being an expert—but it does help you make safer, more informed decisions. Whether you are a school principal, ECE owner, council asset manager, landscape architect, or playground supplier, understanding the terminology used in NZS 5828:2015 can make specification, maintenance, and compliance much easier. This glossary explains 25 of the most commonly used playground safety terms in plain English, with real-world exam