Skater boys and girls may be sliding along a mountainous backdrop chasing cheese balls when Katikati Skate Park gets its makeover.

Avocados, skateboards, dragons and the cheesy treats are among the ideas to adorn Moore Park’s skatepark when street artist Kalib Wallace starts on its transformation.

Children were brought into the design process by Katikati Open Air Art (KOAA) during the last weekend of March. It invited youth to come along with their skateboards and scooters for an ideas-sharing event.

Vision

Youth ideas will be incorporated into Wallace’s landscape vision of the sky and mountains with cultural design.

The Tauranga-based artist envisages, in its planning stages, pink and blue skies with a mountainous landscape and the kids’ favourite things peppered throughout.

“This event is to get ideas and listen to the voice of the kids and what they would like to contribute to the project,” he said.

The kids put forward ideas such as scooters, animals, Fortnite, Sonic and Daffy Duck, the ocean, storms, a flying fox, Gabby’s Dollhouse and many more for inclusion.

Wallace, of 247 Health and Fitness, mentors youth in the Te Puke area at his gym and runs a healthy lifestyle programme.

Street artist Kalib Wallace is getting ready beautify Katikati Skatepark. Photos / Rebecca Mauger

He also brings youth together to paint murals and has completed several large murals in Te Puke, including at The Hub Te Puke.

He’s also been involved in mural commission work throughout Tauranga.

Youth

KOAA manager Peri St John-Ives said the project was about being inclusive and giving kids a voice.

“Often the artwork that youth like is street art, so this is an opportunity to have a space where their art is appreciated. By getting them involved and part of the process from start to finish – this will hopefully make a place for them that they are really proud of.

“In years to come they will look back on this and know that they were part of it.”

They hope to get the painting process under way before the end of the year.

The surrounding area is in the early stages of being developed under Katikati Community Led Development.

The steering group is focused on issues and opportunities for youth.

They have extensive plans under way to develop the area with more outdoor and leisure activities for youth and families. More information about the project is due out soon.