Katikati Skatepark Set for Youth Street Art Makeover

A 10-year-old Katikati local is about to see his vision for the town's Fairview Rd skatepark come to life, thanks to Katikati Open Air Art (KOAA). Pewee Tewhakaara, who regularly skates at the park with mates, sparked the idea for a revitalisation project during a conversation with KOAA arts coordinator Peri St John-Ives a few years ago.

Over four days from 19–22 June, Tauranga-based street artist Kalib Wallace will work with local rangatahi to paint the curves, jumps, and bowl of the skatepark. The first two days — Friday 19 and Monday 22 June — are mainly reserved for Katikati College students selected by their teachers. However, on the weekend of 20–21 June, any young person aged 7 to 17 is welcome to turn up and get involved.

St John-Ives said all paint and art equipment would be supplied, so participants simply need to show up and bring their own food and water. No prior art experience is required. A public reveal event is planned for 28 June, featuring food, a DJ, prizes, and demos at the skatepark.

Originally published in Katikati News (Sun Media).