Skatepark on way
Youngsters help creation
A skatepark has been the talk of Mangakino for over two decades and now the community’s wishes are coming true.
The Mangakino/ Pouakani representative group is on the verge of reaching its $200,000 goal for the facility.
The group has already accumulated $150,000 from grants and leftover project funds from the Taupo District Council.
And while the money is on its way the community has been proactive to make it a reality.
A working group comprising group representatives and school children has been researching the options available.
Community member and representative Lisa de Thierry is pleased with the progress.
‘‘The idea has finally evolved and been accepted,’’ she said.
Part of the research was to look at skateparks in Matamata, Morrinsville and Turangi.
De Thierry said the children decided they liked the Turangi concrete skatepark design the best. She said the children’s involvement has also been a good experience for them.
‘‘It’s really good teaching them about leadership skills and sharing,’’ she said.
For resident Lisa Jakes the idea has also been a long time coming.
Jakes has lived in Mangakino for more than 30 years and has always noticed appeals for the facility.
‘‘I think over the years there’s been requests for a skate park,’’ she said.
The pleas and aspirations for one have not worked in the past until now, according to Jakes.
‘‘This last request from the young people was more substantial,’’ she said.
Her children are too old to enjoy it but Jakes said it will be a great addition to the town.
She said the park is part of the town upgrade which is in its ‘‘very early’’ stages.