A Little More Adventure at Newenham
There’s more to explore at Newenham, with the newly extended nature playground now open along Rainbird Drive. But there’s a little more to this playground than meets the eye.
Set among the trees alongside Western Flat Creek, the playground is a welcoming space for families to spend time outdoors, spark imaginations and enjoy the simple pleasures of playing in nature.
And while the swings, slides and climbing equipment might be the first things to catch the children’s attention, the story behind the playground is just as interesting.
Designed with nature in mind
Long before the first piece of play equipment was installed, careful consideration was given to where the playground would sit within the growing Newenham master planned community.
Its location was chosen for several reasons, including its proximity to the future retail precinct, playing fields and linear trail. But perhaps the most important consideration was the opportunity to embrace the natural environment surrounding the existing wetland basin.
Rather than creating a traditional playground in one defined space, the vision was to develop a series of connected play areas that would work with the surrounding landscape.
Landscape architecture firm Tract was engaged to develop the concept masterplan, with a Newenham resident among those involved in the initial planning during his time with the firm.
The brief was to create a playground that wrapped around the existing wetland basin, with several distinct play spaces offering different experiences for children of varying ages, from nature-based exploration to more traditional playground activities.
A playground shaped by the community
Another important part of the playground’s story is the role the Newenham community played in its development.
Following the creation of the initial concept, a community consultation process helped inform the final designs.
This approach reflects Newenham’s broader vision of creating spaces that encourage people to spend time outdoors, connect with their surroundings and enjoy a genuine sense of community.
The playground was subsequently delivered in two stages, with the latest extension bringing the original vision to life.
More room for little adventures
Today, three distinct yet connected play spaces offer plenty to keep little and big kids entertained.
There’s a nest swing, slide, balance beams, climbing pyramid, stepping logs and swings, providing opportunities to climb, balance, explore and create new adventures.
Whether it’s mastering the balance beams, reaching new heights or simply discovering a favourite place to play, children can explore at their own pace.
And with the playground nestled within its natural surroundings, there’s plenty of opportunity to enjoy the sights and sounds of the outdoors along the way.
A place to play, picnic and connect
Of course, the playground isn’t just for the kids.
With shelter, seating and an expansive lawn, there’s room to unpack a picnic, catch up with friends or enjoy a relaxed afternoon while the children play.
Its connection to Newenham’s broader green spaces also makes it a lovely place to stop during a family walk or an afternoon stroll exploring the neighbourhood.
Planning a visit to Newenham’s nature playground?
Located along Rainbird Drive in Mount Barker, the playground sits directly off the 2-kilometre Newenham Linear Park Trail, making it accessible by bike or on foot from Mount Barker’s town centre.
With three connected play spaces, picnic areas and natural surroundings to explore, it’s a lovely destination for families looking to enjoy some time outdoors in the Adelaide Hills.
It’s another chapter in Newenham’s growing story, where thoughtful planning, natural surroundings and community connection come together to create places that families can enjoy for years to come.
Come and discover a little more outdoor adventure at Newenham, Mount Barker.
If you’re dreaming of making the Adelaide Hills your home, we’d love to show you what life at Newenham is all about. To learn more about building your future at Newenham, call our Sales Team on 0429 107 497 or visit the Sales & Information Centre at 164 Flaxley Road, Mount Barker. Click here for open hours.