Stratford Bike Party: Stratford tamariki bring their wheels to celebrate

Marcus Swart (5) regularly visits the bike park with his family. Photo/ Alyssa Smith

It was a birthday party to which the whole community was invited when Stratford's bike park celebrated its first birthday in style.

Tamariki were invited to bring their wheels and helmets and join the Stratford District Council team last Tuesday to celebrate the one-year anniversary of the town's popular bike park.

With live entertainment from Zeal, three-on-three basketball games, skill sessions and bike workshops, there were plenty of ways for people to join in the fun.

From left: Aja Morresey (13), Lucy Cadman (7), Azaria Cadman- Toopi (9), Talyn Morresey (11), Isla Mae Cadman (4) and Johnny Cadman (9) enjoyed free icecream. Photo/ Alyssa Smith

A free sausage sizzle plus free icecreams kept youngsters refreshed as they enjoyed the day in the sunshine.

Aja Morresey (13) was one of many who scooped up the free ice cream at the event.

"It was a really nice day so the ice cream went down a treat."

Marcus Swart (5) took the time to ride along the bike park, something he enjoys doing, he says.

"I love coming to the bike park. We come here a lot."

The event was fun, he says, with Marcus taking breaks from the bike park to watch the live entertainment.

A large crowd attended the birthday celebration. Photo / Alyssa Smith

"I love music and dancing. The people performing were good."

Stratford District Council community development manager Chade Julie says the day was successful, with between six and seven hundred people coming out to enjoy the free event with live entertainment and have a ride around at the bike park.

Over 500 sausages were cooked for hungry families he says.

"There were also over 400 ice creams given out and a heap of chocolates, lollies and prizes. It really was an epic celebration with great weather."

Stratford District Youth Council members kept the crowds full with a free barbecue. Photo/ Alyssa Smith

Organised by the Stratford District Council, the event was supported by the Stratford District Youth Council, Zeal, Basketball Taranaki, Sport Taranaki, Roadsafe and Torpedo7.

"Our partners helped make this event successful for our community."

Chade says the turnout was incredible.

"It's so amazing to see this many people utilising the facility. We want to thank the community for the turnout and for celebrating the bike park's birthday with us."