A 5-metre wooden pirate ship has sailed from an Invercargill workshop to a South City kindergarten.
The massive playground was built by MenzShed volunteers at their Liddel Street location and installed last month at Nga Hau e Whai Kohanga Reo kindergarten in Balmoral Drive.
The elaborate vessel stands 3 metres high and features multiple ways for children to board. Two slides extend from the stern, while the port side has a fireman's pole and monkey bars for adventurous young pirates. A climbing wall on the starboard side provides another challenging route aboard.
Attention to detail includes mock portholes and gun muzzles running along both sides of the ship to enhance the pirate experience. A cross-width tunnel adds another element of exploration.
The project represents countless hours of volunteer work by MenzShed members, who used their woodworking skills to create what promises to be a standout feature at the kindergarten.
Now installed, the wooden vessel is expected to become a popular attraction, offering kindergarten students an imaginative play space that encourages physical activity and creative play.
MenzShed projects like this demonstrate the organisation's commitment to community welfare, with members regularly contributing their time and expertise to benefit local groups and facilities.
The project highlights the valuable contribution volunteer organisations like MenzShed make to the Invercargill community, using practical skills to create lasting benefits for local children and families.