The Dunedin City Council says the "major overhaul" of the playground is the biggest since it was opened in 1985.
It worked with mana whenua to create designs inspired by the legend of how Māui brought fire to the world.
Illustrations of native Otago flora and fauna would be included as well in the telling of the story of Mahuika and Māui.
Once completed the playground would include a 5m tower with two tube slides, and an accessible stainless steel slide.
There would be a large wooden climbing structure with "commando nets".
There would also be a recessed, wheelchair-friendly trampoline and other trampolines, the council said.
An accessible roundabout, a series of swings and "balance-challenging steps" would complete the new setup, its website said.
The playground is expected to be reopened by September 28, in time for the next school holidays.
