Thanks to a successful Kiwisport application, portable skateboard ramps have now been delivered to Okaihau College and Taipa Area School, creating a mini skatepark, for skateboards and scooters, at both schools.

When the Northland Secondary Schools Sports Association decided to hold its inaugural skateboarding competition this year, an application was made for skateboard ramps and obstacles that were sturdy enough for competition use however portable, as well, so that they could be easily transported. Unfortunately, COVID-19 put an end to the competition.

Thanks to Dave Crabb, from Circle D Construction, the project build continued. Two schools, that had students with an interest in the sport of skateboarding but had limited or no access to skateboarding facilities were approached to act as custodians of the equipment until a new competition date could be found.

Max Dryden and Lawrence Loke from Okaihau College were the first students at their school to see them. The smiles on their faces were immediately apparent when they saw the ramps for the first time. “I’m definitely going to practice more now. This is going to be way better and it’s going to get more kids involved. Now we have everything we need”, says Max.

Robyn Richards, Regional Sports Director, is indebted to Sport Coordinators, Philippa Moor and Darrin Pivac, who have viewed the gear as a positive asset to their school. Robyn is also grateful for the support from Principals, Tom Davison and Doreen Bailey who have been enthusiastic about the additional equipment that offers another way for their rangitahi to be physically active.