The poetry of four Naenae College students will be showcased at prominent spots in the newly renovated Walter Mildenhall Park, set to reopen next year.
The winning students, Alisha Tailor, Hana West, Jackson Davies, and Keira Dempsey, were selected for a competition that asked them to submit poems, whakataukī, or short stories about their love for Naenae, memories, thoughts on the future of the suburb, or reflections on a local figure or event from the area’s past.
The students were awarded certificates at a special ceremony held at the Te Mako Community Centre.
Lower Hutt Mayor Campbell Barry expressed his support for the project, noting it is fitting that the young winners’ words will be displayed at the park, located next to the new Te Ngaengae Pool + Fitness facility.
“Walter Mildenhall Park is the third major project, following the Te Mako Community Centre and the Te Ngaengae Pool + Fitness centre, aimed at rejuvenating the heart of Naenae,” said Barry. “We’ve worked closely with the community to incorporate their ideas, providing state-of-the-art facilities that benefit them, boost the local economy, and bring vibrancy to Naenae.”
The Whakatupu Ngaengae Community Advisory Group (CAG) collaborated with the Council and the local community on the park’s design.
CAG Chair Lyn Bareta emphasized the importance of involving young people in the process, saying, “Their poetry will speak for future generations in a park that reflects significant community input. It’s a wonderful outcome.”
The creative writing competition was developed as part of an effort to embed “organically Naenae” themes in the park’s design. The park’s features reflect the community’s input, with priorities including:
- A sheltered space for kai preparation with group seating, cooking, water, rubbish disposal, and play areas.
- Various play areas, including natural elements, fenced spaces, seating, and basket swings.
- Areas for wheeled activities like skating, ball games, and adventurous activities like climbing.
- A mix of native and exotic trees for shade, climbing, and kai, with added color and scent.
- Quiet seating and rest areas.
- Safety components, such as improved lighting, sight lines, wayfinding signage, wider paths, and barriers between high and low energy areas.
- The use of natural materials.
Sierra Delta Civil Ltd has been appointed as the contractor to redevelop Walter Mildenhall Park, with work set to begin in the new year. The park is expected to reopen in late 2025. The company has committed to supporting the local economy by using local resources and suppliers and offering above-living wages. They also aim to reduce emissions and waste by using modern equipment.
