Grant aids construction of new Turua play area

A $15,000 New Zealand Community Trust grant will do wonders for the renovation and expansion of Turua Barnardos’ play area.
The early learning centre is currently undergoing redevelopment, with a vacant Barnardos building in Hamilton having already been transported to its new home in the Hauraki town.
Barnardos’ trust and grants fundraiser Amanda Kidman said Turua’s existing facility was at the end of its life, and funding was sought to support the acquisition of outdoor play equipment for the new space.
“The expanded outdoor play area will serve as a vibrant space for children in our community, fostering physical activity, social interaction, and overall well-being,” she said.
“This redevelopment will also give Barnardos the opportunity to apply to extend the current licensing of 38 children to meet community need and provide access to early childhood education to tamariki and whanau. There is a predicted increase in population growth as Hauraki District Council is set to develop two major subdivisions nearby.”
The $15,000 grant was funded via The Paeroa Hotel, and New Zealand Community Trust general manager of grants, marketing and communications Ben Hodges said he was grateful for the partnership.
“Together, we made this grant happen.”
The renovation and extension of the Turua centre is scheduled to take place later this year, with hopes that the new building will cater to the expected boom in Turua’s population growth.
“This renovation and extension of our Turua Early Learning Centre is a fantastic example of our mahi and long-standing commitment to providing early childhood education opportunities to tamariki and whanau in the Waikato district,” he said.