Last updated July 2026
Rotorua CBD Skatepark is a free public concrete facility located in central Rotorua at the corner of Amohau Street and Ranolf Street, maintained by the Rotorua Lakes Council. It serves as the main inner-city skate spot and sits adjacent to Kuirau Park. The park was originally built in 1998 with a later extension, but it has not undergone the full redevelopment proposed in 2017. Recent council decisions have shifted focus to a new multisport skatepark at Kuirau Park, with partial funding allocated in the 2024-34 Long Term Plan.
Practical Information
| Location | Amohau Street / Ranolf Street corner, central Rotorua (Sheaf Park area) |
| Cost | Free |
| Hours | Open during daylight hours |
| Surface | Concrete |
| Suitable for | All wheeled non-motorised users; condition limits advanced use |
| Facilities nearby | Kuirau Park, public toilets, central city parking and services |
About the Skatepark
The existing Rotorua CBD Skatepark consists of older concrete elements including ramps, a mini ramp, street obstacles and flat areas. Community feedback over many years has highlighted safety issues such as lifted metal, sunken transitions and uneven surfaces, making it less suitable for progression skating.
Plans for a major renewal at the current site, developed through 2017 consultation, included proposed zones such as a flow bowl, pool bowl, Moguland humps, box jump section and open plaza. These designs were never constructed at the Amohau Street location due to funding constraints.
In 2024 the Rotorua Lakes Council allocated $650,000 toward a new skatepark at Kuirau Park, with the Rotorua Action Sports Charitable Trust leading fundraising for the remaining costs. Construction has not yet begun.
The Rotorua Skate Scene
Rotorua maintains an active local skating community that has long used the CBD park as a central gathering point. The park remains open to skateboarders, scooter riders and BMX users, though many riders note the need for upgrades to support varied skill levels safely.
Kuirau Park lies immediately beside the skatepark, offering geothermal features, foot baths and open space. Lake Rotorua and the wider CBD amenities are within easy walking distance.
Other Rotorua Skateparks
The CBD facility forms part of a district-wide network managed by the Rotorua Lakes Council. Puketawhero Skate Park in Owhata on Te Ngae Road features a mini bowl, pyramid and bank-to-ledge elements. Huia Lyons Reserve Skatepark in Fordlands provides an additional community skate spot with its own set of features.
What Visitors Often Say
Many visitors describe the current park as dated and in need of repair, with uneven surfaces and trip hazards that affect usability, especially for beginners and skateboarders.
Local riders appreciate its central location and free access but frequently express excitement about the planned new facility at Kuirau Park to improve safety and variety.
Where to Learn More
Rotorua Lakes Council Participate page: details the history of consultation and proposed design elements for the inner-city skatepark.
Rotorua Lakes Council Kuirau Park page: covers the integration of skatepark planning with park upgrades and current LTP funding.
RICH Landscapes project page: shows the 2017 concept design and layout for the proposed CBD renewal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Rotorua CBD Skatepark free?
Yes, the facility is a free public space maintained by the Rotorua Lakes Council with no entry fee required.
What is the current condition of the CBD skatepark?
The park retains its original concrete layout from the late 1990s and early 2000s and shows signs of wear including uneven surfaces and safety concerns noted by users.
Has the 2017 redevelopment been completed?
No, the proposed features such as the flow bowl, pool bowl and Moguland sections were not built at the Amohau Street site.
Where will the new Rotorua skatepark be located?
Council has allocated funding for a new multisport skatepark at Kuirau Park, with construction timing dependent on additional fundraising by the Rotorua Action Sports Charitable Trust.
Are there other skateparks in Rotorua?
Yes, additional public skateparks include Puketawhero Skate Park in Owhata and Huia Lyons Reserve Skatepark in Fordlands.
What activities are allowed at the CBD skatepark?
The park is open to skateboarders, scooter riders and BMX users with non-motorised wheeled equipment.
Is the skatepark suitable for beginners?
The current condition makes it less ideal for beginners; the open areas are the most accessible sections.
What is nearby the CBD skatepark?
Kuirau Park with its geothermal attractions and facilities lies directly adjacent, along with central Rotorua shops, cafes and transport links.
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