Three potential sites for Kihikihi skatepark

Three different sites have been identified as potential locations for a brand new skatepark in Kihikihi.

But a decision will not be made until people from Kihikihi provide a clear steer on what they want.

Waipā District Council has identified the old Kihikihi landfill site on Leslie St, Kihikihi Domain and a site behind the town hall as potential places. Council will be holding a meeting on Friday 26, August, from 3:30pm – 6:00pm at the Kihikihi town hall to seek feedback on which site is preferred, and why.

Council has already said it wants a site the community can take ownership of, connect with and in a location convenient to users and close to town.

Community services manager Brad Ward said the Kihikihi community had made it clear through the 2021-2031 Long Term Plan submissions more play and recreation facilities for young people were needed.

“This led to budget being approved in years 1 and 2 of the Long-Term Plan with over $100K being allocated to put towards the project to support community fundraising. Depending on the size of the skate park and added amenities the money is expected to cover a sixth of cost with the rest coming from community fundraising.”

Kihikihi-based Te Paparoa Committee Group has already started fundraising for the skatepark, with construction planned for 2023.

Once a site is approved Council will start drafting up design plans, alongside the community.

Meanwhile, the new Te Awamutu skatepark, playground and parkour space at Centennial Park are scheduled to open in late September after a seven month build period.

Construction has begun on the Cambridge skatepark and is expected to be completed by February 2023.

Council is continuing to work with the community to determine locations for a skate facility in Pirongia.

The public is also able to provide their feedback via an online survey at www.waipadc.govt.nz/waipa-skate-parks.