Playground to go if bad behaviour continues

Napier City Councillor Maxine Boag, Community Constable Shane Gibson and Mataruahou M ori Warden Lee Te Kahika, at the problem playground. Photo / Supplied

A local playground has become a site for bullying, swearing and loitering and the council is determined to reclaim it.

Bad behaviour at the recently upgraded Oldham Avenue Reserve is disappointing, Napier City Councillor Maxine Boag said.

The council recently installed a picnic table and basket swing to enhance the play area and complement the nearby shops on Wycliffe St.

However, concern has been growing over abuse around the facilities by some members of the community.

"This includes the use of foul language, bullying and the general nuisance by some members of the community to others around them," Ms Boag said.

"We don't want to have to remove the swing as it is being well used but we are concerned about the way that people are treating one another. It should be a safe place for everyone to enjoy."

"The council does not condone this sort of behaviour and has been working to increase patrolling in the area."

Hawke's Bay Police and Maori Wardens support keeping the facilities but agree that if it cannot be looked after it will have to go.