Katikati Skatepark set for vibrant street art makeover

Tauranga-based street artist Kalib Wallace is preparing to transform the Katikati Skatepark at Moore Park into a colourful work of public art. The project, led by Katikati Open Air Art (KOAA), invited young people to bring their skateboards and scooters to an ideas-sharing event at the end of March, where they pitched concepts ranging from ocean waves and animals to Fortnite characters, Sonic, a flying fox and Gabby's Dollhouse.

Wallace's vision centres on pink and blue skies with a mountainous backdrop, woven through with cultural design elements and the kids' favourite ideas. He also mentors rangatahi in the Te Puke area through his gym, 247 Health and Fitness, and has completed several large murals around Tauranga and at The Hub Te Puke.

KOAA manager Peri St John-Ives said the project was about making sure young people had a genuine voice. 'Often the artwork that youth like is street art, so this is an opportunity to have a space where their art is appreciated,' she said. By involving them from start to finish, the hope is that they will feel a lasting sense of ownership and pride in the space.

The surrounding area is also in the early stages of development under Katikati Community Led Development, with plans for more outdoor and leisure activities for youth and whānau. The painting process is expected to get under way before the end of the year.

Originally published in Katikati News (Sun Media).