Rebuilding Smiles After the Storm
Project Details
Disciplines Involved: Building | Concreting | Landscaping
Location: Napier
Client: EIT
Completed: February 2026
Cyclone Gabrielle left a devastating mark on Hawke’s Bay in 2023.
With widespread flooding and destruction impacting homes, businesses, and community spaces alike. Among those affected was a local daycare, where outdoor play areas were left with a layer of silt and debris. What had once been a vibrant, safe environment for children was transformed into a landscape unfit for purpose.
Recognising the importance of restoring a safe and joyful space for the children, Toa Civil Construction were engaged to help. More than just repairing the damage, the team saw an opportunity to deliver a meaningful upgrade that would better meet the daycare’s needs for years to come.
Working closely with the daycare, Toa Civil Construction developed a thoughtful design focused on safety, durability, and functionality. By combining multiple services, they were able to revitalise the outdoor area. New concrete areas created space for push biking, while timber decking and edging defined, play spaces. Play areas were enhanced with perma play astro turf, offering a clean, soft, and low-maintenance surface ideal for everyday use. Carefully selected new plantings brought life and colour back into the environment.
Equally important was the thorough removal of all flood-damaged materials and debris, ensuring the site was safe and clean for playtime.
Today, the daycare is a welcoming environment where children can once again play, explore, and thrive. Toa Civil Construction, with civil, building, and landscaping services all available and working together, were clearly best suited to this project.