New youth space a community effort

Mamaku has a new youth space – complete with a skateboard and scooter facility, playground with climbing wall, and colourful murals – as a result of the community’s engagement with Rotorua Lakes Council.

Sports & Recreation portfolio lead Councillor Charles Sturt will officially open the new youth space at the Mamaku Domain tomorrow (Friday 21 August) following a series of community hui to determine what the youth space would look like and what activities local youth would enjoy.

Councillor Sturt said the youth space is already proving popular with the Mamaku community, who have been part of its development from the outset.

“Re-developing the domain was a result of the Mamaku community asking the council for a public facility for its young people and wider whanau to enjoy. They remained involved as the project progressed, and participated in the painting of awesome artworks in the new playground.

“While the council dedicated $120,000 to the youth space in the last financial year, the Mamaku community has also been raising funds for activities on the space and taking ownership. This is encouraging and we know that the park will be well utilised and valued by the community.”

The official opening is taking place on 16 October from 4pm to 5pm at the Mamaku Domain.

Rotorua Lakes Council’s Youth Spaces project is a result of submissions made to the council’s last draft Ten Year Plan by young people from Fordlands, Koutu and Western Heights, due to lack of activities for young people in those communities.

ENDS

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