A community vision for a recreational hub at Pukehina’s Midway Park is taking shape with its first pump track done and plans for a skills track.

The Pukehina Residents and Ratepayers Association (PRRA) has led the project with support from Western Bay of Plenty District Council, a statement from Manawa Trust said.

Community meetings in 2018 identified improved facilities for bikes, scooters and skateboards as a priority, alongside spaces for recreation, gathering and nature.

Association committee member Esther Kirk said the park was at the heart of the community but had offered limited recreational facilities.

“For many years there has been a desire to create a place that supports community hauora and brings people together.”

The project secured funding in 2019 from the council’s Community Facilities Fund for a skate ramp and picnic tables.

In 2025, further consultation with residents resulted in $125,000 allocated towards a pump track from a repurposed targeted rate.

Stage one has been completed, delivering a 185m asphalt pump track designed for riders of all ages and abilities.

The track can be used by bikes, scooters and skateboards and has quickly become a popular spot for local families and visitors.

“After school, on weekends and during holidays, the space is always busy.

“It’s become a vibrant hub where people of all ages can get active, build confidence and spend time together outdoors.”

The next stage has received $74,118 from Manawa Trust, formerly TECT Community Trust, for an adjoining riding skills track.

Designed by Trailpro, the progression track will feature roll-ins and other features to help riders develop their skills.

It will cater for balance bikes, bicycles, scooters, skateboards and rollerblades.

The association will consult local children, families and regular users before the final design is confirmed.

Further improvements will include additional seating and native planting.

Manawa Trust trustee Rachael Gemming said the project showed what could be achieved when communities worked together.

“The Midway Park project is a great example of what can be achieved when communities come together with a shared purpose.”

Construction of the skills track is expected to begin this month and be completed by December.