Boost for young bikers as Tamariki Ako re-opens

Representatives from Te Mata Park, volunteers, and members of the community joined the opening celebration on Saturday 13th September to thank the donors and volunteers that made this re-build possible, share some kai, and most importantly ride the new tracks.

The re-opening of Tamariki Ako would not have been possible without the mahi of a small group of volunteers led by David Gordon from Baywide Dingos, and Hilton Taylor from Revolution Bikes. Sincere thanks to Dave and Hilton for leading the work that went into creating such a fantastic track for local tamariki. Te Mata Park Trust would also like to acknowledge financial support for the project from Ivan and Jo Aplin, Mat, Jane and Imogen Bailey, and Rachael and Hamish Waddington of Z Service Station Havelock North, via their annual Good in the Hood promotion. Farmlands Hastings kindly supplied at a great discount, the drainage culverts used, and Michael Bate and Sunshine Joinery each donated a picnic table which will be much needed for rests and refueling!

Next on the agenda for this area will be to add some native rakau, which is in the planning for next planting season.

The Trust would also like to thank the local business that made our celebration possible – Evergreen Foundation for the loan of the fantastic BBQ trailer and Four Square Te Mata for the delicious sausages and ice blocks!

About Tamariki Ako:

Tamariki Ako is made up of three concentric loop tracks, connected by feature bridges, which provide interest and skill building opportunities for young riders. Tamariki Ako is suitable for confident balance bikers through to capable young riders. Parental supervision is required and we ask confident riders to please be aware of younger bikers on the tracks.

How to get there: from Tauroa car park, head up Chambers Walk for 300 metres and you’ll find the area on the left.