Last updated July 2026
Alfred Cox Skate Park is a redeveloped public skate facility in the heart of Gisborne, New Zealand. Located at 204 Grey Street, it sits a short walk from Waikanae Beach and serves skaters of all ages and abilities. The park reopened in October 2022 following a major upgrade led by the Tairāwhiti Adventure Trust in partnership with Trust Tairāwhiti. It features distinct zones for learners, street skating and bowls, plus an adjacent pump track. The facility draws hundreds of visitors weekly and has hosted national competitions.
Practical Information
| Address | 204 Grey Street, Gisborne 4010 |
| Access | Free public access; open at all times |
| Facilities | Learner wheeled play area, main slab with trick elements and jump boxes, interconnected bowl platforms, accessible pathways, seating, hydration stations |
| Nearby | Alfred Cox Pump Track (300 m continuous riding, 2000 m² area) across the road; Waikanae Beach |
| Operator | Tairāwhiti Adventure Trust (facilities); Gisborne District Council (reserve land) |
| Events | Regular local and national competitions including New Zealand Skateboarding Nationals |
About Alfred Cox Skate Park
Alfred Cox Skate Park occupies a central site in Gisborne within the Tairāwhiti region. Originally constructed in the early 1990s with recycled materials and later opened around 2001, the park had deteriorated over time with cracks and seismic damage. The 2021–2022 redevelopment addressed these issues and delivered three distinct skating zones plus improved circulation and accessibility.
The upgrade was funded in part by more than $2.8 million from Trust Tairāwhiti and managed by the Tairāwhiti Adventure Trust. Local skaters, including rangatahi, contributed to the design through workshops. The resulting layout supports progression from beginner areas to advanced bowl and street features while maintaining a welcoming community atmosphere.
The park lies beside Alfred Cox Memorial Park and connects to walking and cycling paths, including a trail toward Midway Beach. Its location near the beach and central Gisborne makes it convenient for residents and visitors. Post-redevelopment, the facility has gained national recognition and supports youth wellbeing and physical activity in the region.
Design and Features
The redeveloped park includes a dedicated learner wheeled play area for building confidence, a main slab with terraces, trick-oriented elements and jump boxes, and an upper platform with interconnected bowl spaces. Accessible pathways link all areas and support users of varying abilities. The design retains some original elements where possible while replacing the majority of the concrete infrastructure.
Across the road, the Alfred Cox Pump Track provides 300 metres of continuous riding over a 2000 m² area. It features banked turns, rollers and smooth transitions suitable for bikes, skateboards, scooters and roller skates. Both facilities opened as part of the same project and function as complementary community assets.
Events and Community Role
Since reopening, Alfred Cox Skate Park has hosted major events including the 2022 New Zealand Pump Track Nationals and UCI World Qualifiers, and the 2023 Skateboarding Nationals. These competitions attract top riders and position Gisborne as a destination for action sports. The park also serves as a daily gathering place that promotes physical activity, social connection and resilience, particularly for young people following events such as Cyclone Gabrielle.
The Tairāwhiti Adventure Trust continues to support youth engagement and future enhancements through partnerships with Sport New Zealand and local stakeholders. The facility remains a focal point for skateboarding culture in the region.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors describe the park as one of the best in New Zealand, praising the smooth concrete, variety of features for all skill levels, and welcoming community atmosphere. Many note the convenient central location near the beach and the positive energy from local skaters and families.
Reviewers frequently mention the pump track as a fun addition and appreciate the accessible design and seating areas. Families highlight it as a safe, inclusive space that encourages active play and social interaction.
Where to Learn More
Trust Tairāwhiti: Details on the redevelopment project, funding and community impact.
RICH Landscapes: Project overview, design features and completion information from the lead designer.
Gisborne District Council: Information on reserves, leases and local facilities including Alfred Cox Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Alfred Cox Skate Park free to use?
Yes, the park is a free public facility with no entry fees or booking required.
What are the main features of the skate park?
The park offers a learner area, main slab with trick elements and jump boxes, and interconnected bowl platforms, plus an adjacent pump track.
Is the park suitable for beginners?
Yes, the dedicated learner wheeled play area provides a space for beginners to build skills safely.
Are there any age restrictions?
No age restrictions apply; the facility is designed for users of all ages and abilities.
Can I bring my own equipment or obstacles?
Personal ramps or obstacles are not permitted; only the park’s fixed features may be used.
Is the park accessible?
Accessible pathways connect all areas, and the design accommodates users of varying abilities.
Does the park host events?
Yes, it regularly hosts local gatherings and national competitions such as the New Zealand Skateboarding Nationals.
Is there parking or public transport nearby?
Street parking is available in the central Gisborne location, and the site is walkable from the city centre and beach.
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