Tuakau Skate Park is officially open

The result of Waikato District Council’s partnership with a sports trust was officially opened today.

Tuakau Youth Sports Trust was instrumental in getting the Tuakau Skate Park project up and running and the fruits of its labour are now being enjoyed by the local community.

Spearheaded by trust chair Shaun Jackson, engagement sessions with residents at Tuakau Youth Centre ensured they had their say in the design of the park, which was done by Rich Landscapes.

Extra funding for the project was provided by Council’s Waikato District Community Wellbeing Trust, New Zealand Community Trust, Lotteries NZ and Onewhero Tuakau Community Board.

Jstone Skate Parks built the facility, which is next to the playground on Dr John Lightbody Reserve in George St. While contractors, Envivo, OCTA and CityCare were also involved.

The rain failed to dampen spirits as kids and their families enjoyed a free sausage sizzle for opening day. Some awesome spot prizes, sourced by the Good Room Skate Store in Pukekohe, were also given out to a few lucky skaters.

Earlier in the day a karakia was held to bless the site. This was run by Ngaati Tiipa, Ngaati Aamaru and Ngaa Marae Maha te Puaha o Waikato.

Opening day was attended by Mayor Jacqui Church, Councillors Kandi Ngataki and Vern Reeve and other community members involved in the project.