About PlayGear by Otago Engineering
Otago Engineering NOW
Andrew and his sister Lauren Callander took the helm of AJ Grant in 2019, rebranding to Otago Engineering.
Andrew began his engineering apprenticeship with AJ Grant in 2007, after qualifying as an engineer, Andrew embarked on his overseas experience, returning to AJ Grant in 2015 to take on a managerial role. As Bruce and Allan looked to retire, Andrew and his sister, Lauren, decided to take on the business, rebranding to Otago Engineering.
With over 65 years as an engineering business in Dunedin, we continue to produce quality commercial playgrounds along with gates, balustrades, fencing and clotheslines. Andrew brings over a decade of experience as an engineer to Otago Engineering, and Lauren comes from a background in graphic design and administration. Together, they bring a focus on quality and creativity to every project they complete, helping clients in Dunedin and all throughout New Zealand.
The History of Otago Engineering (Formally PLAYGEAR by AJ Grant)
Otago Engineering has been a trusted business in Dunedin for over 65 years, previously called AJ Grant after the previous owner, Alex Grant. The business began in a backyard garage, building roof racks and gates from recycled conduit pipes. Sons Allan and Bruce took over from their father in 1976.
When AJ Grant first opened its doors, playgrounds were a patch of grass with a set of swings, a slide and a see-saw. Now, 65 years on they are a place of fun and adventure, providing opportunity to test childrens skills, build confidence and develop motor skills and coordination.
You don’t have to travel far throughout Otago and Southland to find a PlayGear by AJ Grant playground! Taking over and rebranding to PlayGear by Otago Engineering it is our goal to continue manufacturing and supplying long lasting entertaining playgrounds, it was also an important focus for us to continue with playground development as it presents a unique opportunity to blend creativity, engineering, and community engagement. Playgrounds not only demand innovation in design and materials but also a deep understanding of safety standards, child development, and inclusivity.
Why choose PlayGear by Otago Engineering
Choosing PlayGear by Otago Engineering for your playground equipment brings a multitude of benefits, grounded in our reputation for quality, innovation, and community focus. Renowned for our commitment to safety and durability, PlayGear by Otago Engineering ensures that every piece of equipment is designed and manufactured to meet the highest standards, providing peace of mind for parents and caregivers. Our innovative approach to playground design stands out, offering unique, engaging, and educational play structures that encourage children to explore, learn, and grow through play. PlayGear by Otago Engineering also places a strong emphasis on inclusivity, making sure that playgrounds are accessible to children of all abilities, fostering an environment where every child can participate and enjoy themselves. Additionally, our community-centric approach means we work closely with clients to tailor playgrounds to specific local needs and desires, ensuring that each project enriches its end user. Opting for PlayGear by Otago Engineering means investing in a playground that will not only stand the test of time but will also become a focal point for interaction, enjoyment, and pride.
Community Engagement & Co-Design
Developing a playground can be an exciting project that benefits not only children but the entire community. It involves careful planning, design, and execution to create a safe, engaging, and accessible space where children can play and learn. The role of community or school engagement in developing a playground is pivotal, transforming it from a standard recreational space into a cherished community or school asset. This process ensures the playground not only meets the unique needs and desires of the children and families it serves but also reflects the cultural and social fabric of the community or school. By actively involving community or school members in the planning and design stages, we can incorporate local insights and preferences, leading to a playground that is more inclusive, accessible, and enjoyable for all users. Engaging the community in the development of a playground is not just about building a play space - it's about weaving a valuable social and recreational resource into the heart of the community or school, ensuring it thrives for generations.
Budgeting and Funding
Working with school and community budgets and funding for playground projects necessitates a strategic and collaborative approach to ensure that the vision for a new or revitalized play space becomes a reality, despite financial constraints. We understand the careful assessments of available funds, exploration of additional funding sources such as grants, local business sponsorships, and fundraising events, and prioritizing project elements to maximize impact within budget limits. PlayGear by Otago Engineering understand the importance of working with our clients to create innovative solutions like phased project implementation or choosing multi-use playground components which can stretch dollars further. Engaging the community in volunteer build days or donation of materials can also significantly reduce costs. Ultimately, a successful project under budgetary constraints is one that creatively leverages all available resources to create inclusive, engaging, and sustainable play spaces meeting the needs and aspirations of all.
Safety & Maintenance
At PlayGear by Otago Engineering we have expanded our services to include maintenance, inspections, and upgrades for existing playgrounds. Under the New Zealand Playground and Surfacing standard, NZS 5828:2015, the playground operator is required to implement a safety management system. Offering an inspection and maintenance service we can provide your playground area is thoroughly audited by experienced operators and any minor repairs are carried out. The frequency and scope of the service is tailored to your individual requirements.
Playground Certification & Warranty
PlayGear by Otago Engineering Ltd is committed to having components verified with professional engineers to ensure compliance with playground standards and building codes. Certification statements will be available at your request upon completion of the playground, assuring your playground structure is appropriately compliant. Equipment made by Otago Engineering Ltd carries a full 5 year structural component guarantee and a 5 year guarantee on all materials and workmanship. This guarantee does not cover normal wear and tear, accidental damage, cosmetic deterioration, negligence or vandalism and damage caused by extraordinary weather conditions. There is a 2 year guarantee on the functioning of all components that have moving parts. Goods not installed strictly in accordance with our instructions are not guaranteed. PlayGear by Otago Engineering reserve the right to replace or repair in an appropriate manner damaged componentry. It is the purchaser's responsibility to implement and maintain a programme of routine inspection and maintenance. The guarantee will be from the purchase date, (deemed to be the date set out on the invoice describing the goods sold). Our commercial grade plastic slides and plastic components have a 12 month warranty.