Skaters' display to open park | Rotorua News | Local News in Rotorua

Edgecumbe's new skatepark will be hosting BMX and skate demonstrations at its official opening on Saturday.

Beginning at 10am with a blessing, guest skaters Jesse and Toby from ABC skaters and Ryan Wilson from Australia will put on a demonstration for the crowd.

After the formalities, an open competition will be held with spot prizes.

Seating, footpaths, shade and a drinking fountain are to be installed over the next few days at the Edgecumbe Domain site and will be ready in time for the opening ceremony.

There will also be food stalls and spot prizes for those there on the day and Bluelight will be putting on a barbecue.

A project of Edgecumbe Bluelight, the skatepark was designed by internationally renowned skatepark designer Jason Parkes.

He has also been involved in the design of the Grey Lyn Mini Ramp, X Air 1999 to 2004, Whitianga Mini Ramp, Gisborne Vert Ramp, Mangawhai Skate Park and Raglan Skate Park.

Bluelight committee member Kris Byrne said the concept for the skatepark had first been thrown around over two years ago and it would have been completed sooner if not for the rain over summer.

"Around two and a half years ago the youth said they wanted a skatepark and went to council for approval. Bluelight have included a lot of local teenagers in the process and have asked them what they wanted. It's been pretty much a hands-on effort with the local youth," she said.

She said that, while the skatepark had a lot of input from teenagers, there would also be a smaller bowl for younger children to play on so they would have their own space.

Bluelight spokeswoman Vicky Richards said the skatepark was the first initiative aimed at youth in Edgecumbe to be undertaken since the 1987 earthquake.

She said the skatepark site on the Edgecumbe Domain was chosen as the best site for the park after consultation with the Edgecumbe community. The project had received significant funding from the Lion Foundation, Southern Trust and the Rangitaiki Community board, and had been project managed by Whakatane District Council.

Anyone is invited to attend the official opening.

For further information, contact Edgecumbe Blue Light spokeswoman Vicky Richards, phone 027 309 3657.