The installation of a new pump track in Uawa has caused a wave of excitement in the small community of Tolaga Bay, as part of an initiative to enhance the region and provide recreational resources for locals.  The construction of the Alfred Cox Skate Park and Pump Track in Gisborne in 2022, inspired this project which is being run by the Tairawhiti Adventure Trust. 

Chair of Tairawhiti Adventure Trust, Haimona Ngata said the motivation for this initiative, was the historical lack of community facilities in rural areas.  He said creating spaces for families to gather, exercise, and enjoy recreational activities, prompted the Trust to extend its impact beyond the town.

The project received initial funding from the Milford Foundation, which conducted a fundraiser for flood relief and youth-oriented activities. Additional funding was secured through a lottery grant application. Construction was planned for March, but the builders are aiming to break ground in February, with an estimated four-week build time.  They are hoping the pump track will be operational by the end of summer.

Ngata said the new pump track would be a valuable community asset.  They were hoping to run an Open Day and invite international mountain biking champion Tūhoto-Ariki Pene, to demonstrate his skills.

Ngata was optimistic about extending similar initiatives to Ruatoria and Mahia, with plans for pump tracks near existing playgrounds in those areas. The trust has been supporting community upgrades in Mahia, including a new playground, and aims to replicate this success with the addition of a pump track.

As anticipation builds for the Uawa pump track, the trust invites the community to stay connected through social media for updates on the project’s developments and potential future initiatives.

For more information and updates, follow Tairawhiti Adventure Trust on social media.