Ōpōtiki Skatepark undergoing transformation with support from Trust Horizon
This summer, Ōpōtiki’s local skatepark will be transformed into a space the community can be proud of – thanks in part to a $100,000 grant from Trust Horizon.
As part of their objective to provide a connected and safe community, the Ōpōtiki District Council sought funding to upgrade the skatepark and entrance to the Motu Trail. The skatepark was a popular community-led initiative dating back almost 20 years and was overdue for a refurbishment.
“The skatepark was built 15-20 years ago, and it is a really popular facility for young people in the town. But it was overdue for a refresh and tidy-up. It was also very much just a skatepark with none of the surrounding facilities like seating or open spaces,” says Ōpōtiki District Council’s Planning and Regulatory Group Manager, Gerard McCormack. “We are now putting in picnic areas, seating areas, toilets, a new carpark, and an entry point to the cycle trail. It’s all designed to attract people to the space and make it busier and safer.”
Funding from Trust Horizon will go towards installation of new barbecue facilities, lighting, and CCTV cameras. The latter two aim to improve the area’s safety, and increase its use during the evening in the winter months. With the cost of these elements covered, the Council has been able to invest even more into improving the skatepark itself. “We’ve added more features to make it one of the best skateparks in New Zealand, certainly one that Ōpōtiki can be proud to call our own,” says McCormack. “About 30% of the skatepark has been finished so far, and the feedback from every age group has already been fantastic.”
The new skatepark’s design was a community effort, with the Council seeking input from the people who use the park the most. “The designer spent two evenings down at the skatepark, speaking to the kids and anyone else who came down,” says McCormack. “He took their feedback on board, then took the design to the community and made further modifications. We’ve also been taking on feedback as it’s being built.”
With an area for young children, and the cycle trail for all ages, the new and improved space will bring recreational opportunities for every generation. “This project has something for everyone, and will no doubt have a positive impact on the health and wellbeing of our community,” says Trust Horizon trustee and Ōpōtiki local, Kevin Hennessy. “This closely aligns with the Trust’s aim to see the region’s people thrive, and we’re pleased to be able to lend our support.”
Ōpōtiki District Council aims to complete most of the upgrades by Christmas, leaving plenty of time for the community to enjoy the new space over the summer months. “We hope the area will draw more people into town and have ongoing benefits for local businesses and community groups too,” says Ōpōtiki mayor, Lyn Riesterer. “We really appreciate the support from Trust Horizon in helping us meet our aspirations for community recreation and safety.”
Find out more about Trust Horizon community funding here.