Page 15 - pākuViews Autumn/Winter 2013

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The RODEOBOARD, a one-to-three person

“merry go round”, creates a high energy

spinning and rocking movement designed

to test the users balance and strength.

The more we researched and photographed the

new equipment that is part of the Youth Zone,

the more we were impressed. We applaud those

involved – they have created a ‘destination sports

park’ that is not just reserved for the youth – it’s

fun for us grown-ups as well. This innovative

recreational area is the result of dedication and

persistance – cooperation and compromise, in

action. –Tovi Daly

The goal of the Youth Zone project was to

cater to an older age group and satisfy their

thirst for adventure and mastery. “Without a

skate element that was initially pursued by the

Youth Forum, there was a risk it would be just

another playground – a compromise too far

from teen appeal”, says Rowena Brown, Youth

Forum member and long-time supporter of the

skateboard project. “It was imperative that the

right equipment be chosen to ensure it had an

‘edgy’ appeal that reflected the challenges and

thrills of our skate and surf culture”.

TCDC’s Derek Thompson, with guidance from the

Youth Forum and local board rider Alison Smith,

sourced cutting edge equipment from around the

world. These included

Skysurf

, that mimics the

experience of kite surfing and wakeboarding, and

Aeroskate

, that gives users the feel of skating in

a bowl – both are activities many Tairua teens are

passionate about.

Much research and planning went into the

equipment selection. Local physiotherapist Joel

Van Doorn also provided input to ensure the best

selection for the targeted age groups. Equipment

included the ‘Dynamic Structures’ (from Proludic

and Kompan) and an outdoor fitness gym

providing an outdoor fitness gym providing a full

body workout.

“It’s no skate park”, says Rowena. “But thanks to

the innovation of companies that have no doubt

come across the ‘anti-skate’ views of communities

before, Youth Zone has cutting edge recreation

equipment that also keeps dissenting ratepayers

happy”. But the real question is, did young people

get something they’ll use and enjoy?

“So far, it seems so”, admits Rowena. “The facility

attracted youngsters in the 12-18 year age group

within days of opening and has continued to draw

users from Tairua and out of town”.

Want to learn more about the history and

evolution? Read “How to get a skate park into

town – the struggles of The Tairua Youth Zone

project”, an extensive article by Rowena Brown,

online a

t www.pakuviews.co.nz.