Try Play recently took place at Bruce Pulman Park. The games are an inclusive kaupapa designed to provide time, space, and opportunity for high-need tamariki and rangatahi to play in active, meaningful ways. The event was funded through Tū Manawa Active Aotearoa and delivered as part of the Healthy Active Learning initiative.

This year’s Try Play saw Rosehill Special School and it’s 14 satellite units along with Kauri Flats School – Taute, come together with a powerful collaborative network including partners from AUT, Botany Downs Secondary School, Papakura Rotary, Māori Wardens & Crime Patrol, SMS Events – Weet-Bix Tryathlon, and the Halberg Foundation.

Hosted at Bruce Pullman Park, the large-scale activation was designed and facilitated by AUT and Botany Downs students, creating dynamic play experiences tailored to a wide range of abilities and needs.

The day ran across three activity sessions, ensuring every young person could participate in a way that supported their development, confidence, and enjoyment:

1. Complex Needs Session
2. Junior Session – Primary
3. Senior Session – Secondary and Transition Students

Participants explored an exciting range of adaptive and engaging activities, including:

• Trike Track & Tickle Tunnel – proudly funded by Tū Manawa
• Giant Parachute Play
• Cirability & Hungerball Stations

These experiences were designed to promote movement, confidence, teamwork, and joy, while ensuring every participant could engage safely and at their own pace.

“Try Play embody the essence of inclusive play — giving every child the chance to be active, belong, and thrive,” said Tracey-Lee Dalton from CLM Community Sport. “We are grateful to all our partners, whose passion and collaboration made this memorable day possible for our tamariki and rangatahi.”

CLM Community Sport extends heartfelt thanks to all schools, volunteers, organisations, and supporters who contributed to the success of Try Play and who continue to champion equitable access to active recreation for young people across our communities.