Building community connections through tākaro at Iorns Street North

20 February 2025

To boost healthy, active lifestyles and strengthen community connections, Nuku Ora have been facilitating tākaro (play) activations every month at Iorns Street North in Masterton.

Tākaro magic has transformed the green space in the centre of the Iorns Street North neighbourhood, into a vibrant community hub. It now features a community notice board, garden, planting equipment, and playbox to spark creativity and connection among residents. These sessions are a collaborative effort between Nuku Ora and Kāinga Ora, with support from Kā te Rama Switched On Group, Masterton Men's Shed, Robinson's Handyman Services, and Ka Puta Ka Ora Emerge Aotearoa.

“Together, we recognise that creating opportunities for physical activity close to where people live ensures that more people can embrace healthier, more active lifestyles right in their own neighbourhoods,” says Andrew Leslie, Nuku Ora CEO.

These recurring activations include activities such as bubble play, arts and crafts, nature scavenger hunts and utilising the communal toybox. Each session also features a barbeque with shared kai. Tākaro is vital for tamariki and rangatahi, and these sessions bring joy and laughter for the residents of Irons Street North and their whānau while fostering positive community development.

Watch our video of Iorns Street residents having a blast!