Rotorua Skatepark Re-development

Through initial engagement the community has told us they would like to see features that can be ridden by a variety of riders (e.g. Skateboard, scooter, BMX, blades etc.), by all abilities and age groups.

The five main design areas considered to achieve this are:

• Moguland
  A contained area which includes a number of small humps. Generally used by beginner or younger riders but provides for a range of users and abilities. View moguland here.

• Pool bowl
  Transitioned bowl environment with pool coping mimicking some of the early skate environments of the 1970’s. Usually used by more intermediate to advanced riders. View pool bowl here.

• Flow bowl section
  Area with a number of different transitional features and edging treatments that can be used by a range of users and abilities. View the flow bowl here.

• Open plaza environment
  A large open space area that allows space for all users. This area also includes a stage which can be used for events and skateable art feature. View open plaza here.

• Box Jump Section
  The box jump section includes a number of ramps of different sizes as well as a BMX styled mini ramp. This area is typically used by BMX and Scooter riders but provides for a range of users and abilities. View box jump section here.

Take a look at the Skatepark Concept Images gallery to see the various areas/features in the design.

A project team including users of the existing skatepark and a specialist skatepark designer have worked on an initial concept for the skatepark upgrade. At the beginning of the project the project team agreed on a number of principles which the design has been based on. These will be translated into a new concept design for Kuirau Park

These are:

• The design should make use of the existing features and enhance the site;

• The park must cater for a variety of users and a range of abilities;

• Include skateable art features that reflect Rotorua’s uniqueness;

• Provide for national and local events;

• Landscape features such as shelter, seating, viewing, planting and car parking are important.

These ideas of Kuirau Park are also being developed including a geothermal play space and market relocation. You can see more information here.

Other ideas have been suggested for the skatepark that could be included in the future but are not part of the current proposal...

In addition to the upgrade of the skatepark two other future projects have been identified that would complement the skatepark, providing a range of “wheeled” activities for a range of abilities:

• Sealed pump track
  This project has been identified by the Rotorua Trails Trust and would provide for a range of users but primarily for BMX and mountain bikes. The track would also be able to host large scale events.

• Junior cycle skills track
  a track designed to simulate “real world” conditions such as intersections and roundabout to teach kids how to navigate safely on bikes.