Manurewa West Primary School

We have a long-standing relationship with Manurewa West School, which began in 2008. The previous principal, David Wallace, had a passion for the outdoor environment, and realised the importance of having areas for the children to explore and be part of nature. Our first project was a sloped grass area which was really hard to maintain. Mr Wallace wanted a discovery garden reflecting the local community. The area was transformed with palms and tropical planting, paths of different materials, a bridge over a dry riverbed, seats and balancing beams, rocks, and even a fire pit. As it was the principal’s last year at the school where he had served for 19 years, these gardens are known as ‘The David Wallace Gardens’. The area is mature now and a joy for the children to discover. Many other areas around the school followed, including a make-over of the entrance and office area. Completed in 2018, are four outdoor classrooms, a useful addition to the school while they were refurbishing some of their indoor classrooms. Then in 2020, there was another exciting project after some old classrooms were removed creating a large space that needed a connection between the two buildings, an outdoor teaching area and a place for the children to enjoy year-round that was durable. Our designer came up with the ‘Rolling Hills’ and ‘Titoki Forest’ concept with musical instruments added to the outdoor area for additional interest and an element of fun. An extract from the school website reads: “The school has amazing gardens which are a feature of this very proud and beautiful school.” The school has won a number of community environment and ‘Best Garden’ Awards and is widely renowned for its outdoor settings. Murals, well-maintained grounds, and feature landscaping add an important richness to this ‘high standard school’.