Last updated July 2026
Kilbirnie Skatepark forms a key part of the redevelopment of Kilbirnie Park in eastern Wellington. The project delivers a new destination skatepark and outdoor youth space designed by specialist firm Convic. Construction is underway with the facility expected to open in early 2027. The skatepark will replace and upgrade earlier facilities at the park while integrating with broader open space improvements. It aims to serve riders of all levels alongside community recreation needs.
Practical Information
| Location | Kilbirnie Park, Kilbirnie, Wellington |
| Status | Under construction (as of June 2026) — expected opening early 2027 |
| Cost | $5.64 million allocated |
| Designer and contractor | Convic (skatepark specialists) |
| Access | Free public access when open |
| Cultural collaboration | With mana whenua |
About the Kilbirnie Skatepark
The project forms part of Wellington City Council’s broader programme supporting skate facilities across the city. Convic delivered the final concept design following community workshops and engagement with local schools, the skate community, residents and mana whenua. The design integrates the skatepark with an outdoor youth space and other park upgrades including renewed play areas and improved paths and parking.
Convic is acting as head contractor for site-wide civil works that include car parks, lighting, landscaping, playgrounds and the skatepark itself. The facility is described as one of Convic’s largest projects in its 25-year history and is intended to support future Olympic and elite-level pathways for wheeled sports while remaining accessible for everyday community use.
The skatepark sits within the wider Kilbirnie Park masterplan completed in 2023. Funding of $5.64 million was allocated following a 2022 skate feasibility study, with additional resources directed to play space renewal and open space beautification. Construction of the skatepark and youth space elements began in early 2026 after earlier phases of the masterplan.
Construction Timeline and Current Progress
Final concept design was completed in late 2024. Developed and detailed design work occurred through 2025. Main park construction, including the skatepark, has been underway since early 2026. As of the June 2026 project update, key skate features such as the vert wall and bowl are taking shape, the northern car park has reopened with 137 spaces, and the renewed junior play area is already open to the public. Further works will affect the western car park area until project completion.
Why Kilbirnie
Kilbirnie lies at the eastern edge of Wellington’s inner city with good bus connections and proximity to the airport corridor. The suburb previously lacked high-quality skate infrastructure comparable to waterfront facilities. The new destination skatepark addresses this gap while anchoring a wider precinct upgrade that improves play spaces, landscaping and overall park functionality for local residents and visitors.
Where to Learn More
Wellington City Council – Kilbirnie destination skate park: official project page with latest construction updates, design renders and timeline.
Convic – Kilbirnie Skate & Youth Park Construction Underway: project overview from the design and construction team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Kilbirnie Skatepark open?
Construction is underway with the skatepark and youth space expected to open in early 2027. Check the Wellington City Council project page for the latest updates.
Who designed and is building the new facility?
Convic, a specialist skatepark design and construction company, is the designer and head contractor.
How much does the project cost?
$5.64 million was allocated for the new skatepark development.
What level of skating is the park designed for?
The facility supports riders from beginners and community users through to Olympic and elite competition pathways.
Does the project include other park improvements?
Yes, the skatepark forms part of a broader redevelopment that includes an outdoor youth space, renewed play areas, path upgrades and parking improvements.
Was there an existing skatepark at Kilbirnie?
Yes, the project redevelops and replaces earlier skate facilities at Kilbirnie Park as part of the precinct upgrade.
Who was involved in the cultural aspects of the design?
The project includes collaboration with mana whenua on cultural elements and celebration of local heritage.
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