The Bishopdale community turned out in droves recently for the official opening of the refurbished Bishopdale Skatepark.
The works carried out by Citycare Property’s Structures and Landscapes team included demolishing much of the existing skate park features and constructing many more new features.
“Originally installed in the 1980s as an open-area roller skating ‘rink’ — with skatepark elements added in the mid-90s— the existing park was run down and in need of upgrading,” says Chris Pinion, Project Manager – Structures and Landscapes.
The Bishopdale community tried its refurbished skatepark on for size at a community open day.
Communities building communities
The Waimāero/Fendalton-Waimairi-Harewood Community Board Chairperson, Bridget Williams, says the upgraded design has created a welcoming, much more user-friendly experience: “The combination of new elements will appeal to beginners and intermediate-level skaters and scooter riders. We've created an inviting and skater-friendly area that encourages families to enjoy Bishopdale Skatepark.
“You’ve got to move with the times and this new-look skate park does justice to the level of skill and interest out there. It’s great to see.”
Designed by Landscape Architect Richard Smith of RICH Landscapes, the upgraded park now features the following:
- A 1.65m hipped quarter pipe with a corner pocket and multiple hips
- A double-sided pole jam
- A large pyramid
- Round rail and manual box
- Various ‘volcanos’ placed around the park
- A jersey barrier-style feature
- A 7.5’ radius concrete mini ramp
- A variety of seating and picnic table options
The new features include a mix of beginner and intermediate-level obstacles and are suitable for skaters and scooter riders.
“Overall, the park's final design retained the core feel and character of the original Bishopdale skatepark while also bringing an array of new features to make use of the large space that was available,” says Richard.
Delivering world-class projects across the motu
The project began in May 2022 and was completed in September. It was part of a larger project that included the refurbishment of nearby St Albans Skatepark, which Citycare Property completed earlier in 2022.
“A large part of what we do consists of delivering these social infrastructure projects and I always get a kick out of seeing the community coming together to really enjoy them the way they’re designed to be,” says Chris.