Te Papa Tākaro o Tongaparaoa - Ila Park

Te Papa Tākaro o Tongaparaoa - Ila Park, located in Tauranga, New Zealand, is a remarkable establishment that combines a modern playground with the rich cultural heritage of the area. This park was once a thriving wetland, serving as a crucial breeding ground for various bird and fish species. However, it has now been transformed into a state-of-the-art playground that pays homage to its historical significance.

Established in the 1990s, the park was initially named after Mrs. Ila Harris, a beloved member of the local community who lived and worked in the area. In 2023, the park underwent an upgrade and was given a dual name in collaboration with local hapū Ngāi Te Ahi, Ngāti Hē, and Ngāti Ruahine, who worked closely with the council to incorporate cultural design features. The opinions of the local community were also taken into consideration when deciding on the playground features to include.

To celebrate the re-opening of the park, a pōhiri and celebration were held, showcasing the significance of this place to the community. The park holds great historical and cultural importance, as it was once a vital wetland that sustained the whānau (family) of Ngāi Te Ahi, Ngāti Hē, and Ngāti Ruahine. Unfortunately, following the New Zealand Wars, the land was confiscated, but it was eventually returned, albeit divided into shares that allowed some owners to sell the land despite opposition from others. Over time, drainage projects and infrastructure development further impacted the wetlands.

Te Papa Tākaro o Tongaparaoa - Ila Park now encompasses ownership by Capt. George Morris and Sidney Oswald Guinness of Guinness Brothers. The eastern portion of the park was purchased in 1967 by Russell Benneth Harris for grazing horses, and this period of ownership gave rise to the names Ila Park and Harrisfield Drive.

The park is sustained by the Waimapu Stream, also known as the "tears of Mauao." Flowing from the hills, through the Waimapu Estuary, and into Te Awanui, the Tauranga harbor, the stream holds great significance. The rocks placed at the park's entrance symbolize where Mauao once stood before the channel known as the Waimapu Stream was formed during his journey to the harbor. These rocks acknowledge the mana whenua (indigenous people) and serve to reconnect visitors to the land, stream, and surrounding ocean.

In order to preserve the wetland's ecological balance, the local mana whenua have designated the matuku (bittern) and tuna (eel) as kaitiaki (guardians). Restoration efforts from 2019 to 2024 include revegetation using native plants from Te Akakura Native Nursery on Matakana Island, removal of invasive species and non-native plantings, and predator control. The goal is to restore the Tongaparaoa wetland to its former glory, allowing native flora and fauna to flourish once again and providing future generations with the opportunity to connect with and care for this important habitat.

Visitors have expressed their admiration for Te Papa Tākaro o Tongaparaoa - Ila Park, praising its well-designed layout, abundance of shady spots, and the fun and excitement it offers to children. The community eagerly anticipates the upgrade of this beloved park, recognizing the positive impact it will have on the Ohauiti neighborhood.

For more information, please contact Tauranga City Council at Private Bag 12022, Tauranga, 3143, New Zealand. Terms of use, privacy statement, and site map are available on our website.