The playground will be built behind on the Otangarei Reserve, behind the marae.
Mr Hoterene said the children are ready to help the council with the construction of the playground, and that will help foster a sense of ownership and responsibility.
The Otangarei community, which as of the 2013 census, had a population of 1800 people, does not have a playground.
Whangarei District Council has been working with the Otangarei Neighbourhood Safety Panel, Kainga Ora o Otangarei, Te Kotahitanga Marae and the Te Hau Awhiowhio o Otangarei Trust on a number of community projects through the Village Plan programme.
It was through this programme the petition was submitted. The nearest playground is on Korau Rd, too far to walk for those without a car.
"Excellent" - was the first word out of Te Kura O Otangarei principal Myles Ferris' mouth when he heard the news.
He said he was very, very pleased and happy for the community.
"I hope that they cater for the variety of age groups - not just toddlers, something for our older kids as well."
Mr Ferris said there are plenty of community-minded people who will support it.
"We know and understand there are individuals in the community who may abuse it."
However he said he likes to think through education those people can be taught to look after it and see its value for everyone in the community.
Housing New Zealand, who owns around 60 per cent of houses in Otangarei, has offered to contribute $45,000 towards the playground.
Whangarei District Council agreed to contribute $155,00 to the project at a council meeting on Thursday, where councillors were supportive of the playground.
Of that funding, $55,000 would be for the playground itself. The additional $100,000 is for CCTV, a sunshade and lighting. The preference is to do the whole project at once but that has not yet been confirmed.
The report presented to council also noted for the project to be a success, it is essential there is a sense of ownership and that both parents and children from the community have input into its design.