Last updated May 2026
Tawa Skatepark is a recently redeveloped concrete skatepark in the northern Wellington suburb of Tawa, situated adjacent to Tawa Pool. In February 2023 it became the first skatepark upgraded under Wellington City Council’s Skate Pōneke programme — a city-wide initiative to improve skate infrastructure across Wellington’s suburbs. The redesigned park, delivered by RICH Landscapes, replaced an ageing facility with a contemporary street-focused layout that caters to a wide range of skill levels.
Practical Information
| Location | Tawa, northern Wellington — adjacent to Tawa Pool |
|---|---|
| Cost | Free |
| Hours | Open during daylight hours, 7 days |
| Upgraded | February 2023 (Stage 1), designed by RICH Landscapes |
| Disciplines | Skateboarding, scootering, BMX |
| Facilities | Skatepark + picnic table seating area |
About the Skatepark
The Stage 1 redesign by RICH Landscapes introduced a range of street-skating features to replace the outdated original park. The layout includes quarter pipes and banks along the park edges, a Lockwood Ledge, wollie features, hips, a roll-in, a corner pocket, and a platformed drop-in leading to a Double Set with rails. An across-and-down ledge, a flat rail, and a rebuilt pyramid complete the street section. A seating area with picnic tables sits alongside the skatepark — positioned to allow for a Stage 2 expansion without relocation.
The two-stage design approach means the current park is only part of the final vision. Wellington City Council has described the overall project as a phased development, with Stage 1 providing a usable, significantly improved facility while Stage 2 funding and design continues. This makes Tawa Skatepark a park to watch — the current layout is already a solid improvement on what was there before, with more to come.
Part of Wellington’s Skate Upgrade Programme
Tawa’s upgrade was the first to be delivered under the Council’s Skate Pōneke programme, which aims to systematically improve skateparks across the city. Tawa was chosen as the first site due to the poor condition of the existing facility and the community need in the northern suburbs. The programme reflects a broader Council commitment to wheeled sports infrastructure as part of Wellington’s active recreation strategy.
Where to Learn More
Tawa Skate Park Upgrade — Wellington City Council — announcement and background on the redevelopment.
Skate Parks in Wellington — Wellington City Council — full list of Wellington skateparks.
Tawa Skatepark Redevelopment — RICH Landscapes — design and construction details from the project team.
FAQ
When was Tawa Skatepark upgraded?
Stage 1 of the redevelopment was completed in February 2023, making it the first skatepark upgraded under Wellington City Council’s Skate Pōneke programme.
Who designed the new Tawa Skatepark?
RICH Landscapes designed and delivered the redevelopment.
Is Stage 2 complete?
As of the last available information, only Stage 1 has been completed. Stage 2 is part of the long-term plan but was pending further funding and design at the time of the Stage 1 opening.
Where exactly is Tawa Skatepark?
The skatepark is adjacent to Tawa Pool in the suburb of Tawa, northern Wellington.
Is it free?
Yes — the skatepark is free to use and open during daylight hours.
Tawa Skatepark is part of the wider Skate Parks in Wellington guide. For another recently improved northern option, Newlands Skatepark (Pukehuia Park) is a few suburbs to the south, and Waitangi Park Skatepark on the waterfront is Wellington’s flagship concrete bowl facility.
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