GROWING PLAY, GROWING COMMUNITY– MAZ CHARITABLE TRUST
Photo Andy Bruce
Turning a community’s dream into reality, the Mangawhai Activity Zone (MAZ) has become the gem of the township – a project guided by a dedicated group of trustees.
Built over the past decade through the vision and hard work of a devoted army of volunteers, MAZ embodies the heart of Mangawhai. The park was born from a simple yet powerful idea: to provide local children with a safe, stimulating environment that keeps them off the streets while inspiring personal development. That philosophy remains at the core of MAZ today.
What began as a modest community project has flourished into a “backyard playground” of national recognition, enriching the lives of kids and families across the Mangawhai community. Locals affectionately call it “Our Park,” and it plays host to signature events that bring the township together – notably the annual Santa Parade and the world-famous Bowl Jam, a skateboarding competition attracting participants and spectators from around the globe each February.
As the park’s ambitions grew, the need for structure became clear. The Mangawhai Activity Zone Charitable Trust was established by the park’s early pioneers to manage fundraising, grants, donations, and sponsorships – providing a strong foundation for MAZ’s continued development and success.
Much of the inspiration behind the MAZ dream can be credited to founding Chair Colin Gallagher, whose vision and determination helped turn early ideas into reality. Now recently retired, Colin’s leadership has paved the way for incoming Chair John Phillis, who now leads the MAZ Trustees – the group responsible for overseeing all governance matters and ensuring the park’s long-term sustainability.
Today, the MAZ committee meets monthly, with each member responsible for key areas such as park maintenance, funding initiatives, financial planning, new developments, and liaison with community sponsors. This shared approach ensures that every aspect of the park continues to evolve with care and purpose.
Working alongside the trustees is a dedicated operational committee, chaired by Kate Arbuckle, who leads a team of up to eight passionate volunteers responsible for the park’s day-to-day running. From planning upgrades and maintaining facilities to coordinating events and community engagement, the committee ensures that MAZ remains an inspiring and inclusive space for everyone. Every feature is thoughtfully designed to challenge young people both physically and mentally, helping to build confidence, resilience, and self- belief that extends far beyond the park gates.
MAZ’s success is built on a foundation of generosity, collaboration, and community spirit. Individuals, families, and local businesses have all contributed to the park, enhancing its offerings for future generations.
As the committee proudly says, “We’re a bunch of locals committed to creating an environment that all locals can be proud of and share in – whether they’re two years old or ninety-two. Our park belongs to everyone.”
Guided by a clear strategic plan, the Trust ensures MAZ stays dynamic and responsive to the community’s changing needs while continuing to bring people together.