Skate park in the pipeline at Pirongia

Pirongia man Scott Aitken (front right) pictured with a group of Pirongia School skateboarders at the site of the proposed skate park.

Pirongia residents are on a mission to build a skate park in their village.

The project is led by Pirongia man Scott Aitken, a keen skateboarder and father of
two.

The facility would be built on Waipā District Council-owned land beside the dog exercise area off Kane Street.

Scott says the idea for a skate park in Pirongia has been discussed by locals for about three decades.

"Various people have had a go over the last 30 years but it hasn't worked out for different reasons.

"I think we're finally getting somewhere now, though."

The purpose-built skate park would suitable for skate boards, bikes and scooters.

There are also plans for a sheltered area, basketball hoop, toilet facilities, running water and a rubbish bin.

The two-year project is estimated to cost $200k and would be entirely community funded.

Local businesses have already indicated their interest at donating services or money to make the project happen.

Scott says a skate park is vital infrastructure for a community.

With projected population growth for Pirongia, he says the local children need more areas to hang out.

"We just want a space for our kids — a community hub."

"A skate park would provide just that."

He says skateboarding is a good skill for children to have.

"It teaches confidence, coordination and balance."

The skate park would be a short walk from Pirongia School and enjoyed by hundreds of local children and teenagers.

Pirongia Ward councillor Clare St Pierre welcomes the idea for a skate park.

She says the project is exciting for the Pirongia community and would provide a good outdoor activity for young people in the village.

"But we're still early on in this process and a lot of work still needs to be done with consultation and finalising details.

"I encourage everyone to be involved in the process so that what we end up with will be a fantastic asset in the best place that also balances the other needs of our wider community."

A community meeting about the proposed skate park is being held at the Pirongia Community Centre, Crozier Street, on Wednesday, August 15 at 7pm.

All are welcome to attend.

Scott would like to hear from any businesses or individuals keen to help with time, resources or financial donations. He can be contacted on scottit250@gmail.com or 022 353 9190.