Last updated July 2026
Pohe Island Skatepark is Whangarei’s main public skate facility, located within William Fraser Memorial Park on Dave Culham Drive in Parahaki alongside the Hātea River. The park received a major redevelopment completed in March 2021 that expanded the original facility into a larger precinct with street-style elements, flow transition features, and a beginner pump track area. It serves skateboarders, scooter riders, and BMX users across skill levels, with dedicated zones for beginners and more advanced challenges. The riverside setting provides a distinctive backdrop of tidal river views and sounds.
Practical Information
| Address | 109 Dave Culham Drive, Parahaki, Whangārei |
| Park name | William Fraser Memorial Park (Pohe Island) |
| Setting | Alongside the Hātea River |
| Cost | Free |
| Open | Open daily (outdoor public facility) |
| Redevelopment cost | $1.287 million |
| Opened (redeveloped) | March 2021 |
| Suitable for | Skateboards, scooters, BMX; all skill levels |
| Helmets | Recommended for all; mandatory for under-18s |
About Pohe Island Skatepark
The Pohe Island Skatepark occupies a riverside position in William Fraser Memorial Park, a larger recreational area that also includes a destination playground, bike park facilities, sports fields, and access to the Hātea Loop walkway. Its location next to the tidal Hātea River sets it apart from many urban skateparks, offering riders natural views and ambient sounds during sessions.
The 2021 redevelopment was designed by Richard Smith of Rich Landscapes. The project renewed and extended the existing concrete facility rather than a full rebuild, recycling portions of the original concrete to reduce environmental impact while expanding the footprint. New street-style features were added to the south, while the northern transition area was enhanced around the existing spined mini ramp.
Street elements include ledges, rails, stairs, a skate kerb, and bank ledges that provide varied lines and challenges. The transition zone features a modified mini ramp with bowled ends for better flow, plus additional transition elements extending to the north-eastern corner. A separate learner wheeled play area with pump track elements supports younger or newer riders developing skills.
The facility forms part of ongoing master planning for the park, which emphasises connectivity, habitat restoration, and family-friendly recreation alongside the river. Parking is available nearby, and the site connects to broader walking and cycling paths around the Hātea River.
The 2021 Redevelopment
Community input highlighted the need for both more challenging features and beginner-friendly spaces. Whangarei District Council approved the $1.287 million project, with construction occurring through 2020 and the redeveloped park opening in March 2021. The design incorporated a skateable art element and prioritised sustainability through material reuse. The result provides clearer zoning that allows simultaneous use by riders of different abilities.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors appreciate the riverside location and the mix of street, transition, and pump track features that cater to different skill levels in one facility.
Riders note the expanded layout after the 2021 redevelopment and the value of the beginner area for building confidence before progressing to more advanced sections.
Where to Learn More
Whangarei District Council – William Fraser Memorial Park: Official park page with location details, facilities, and access information.
Rich Landscapes – Pohe Island Skatepark Redevelopment: Designer project page detailing the 2021 renewal, features, and approach.
Concrete Disciples – Pohe Island Skatepark: Skatepark directory listing with community notes for visiting riders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Pohe Island Skatepark?
The skatepark is at 109 Dave Culham Drive, Parahaki, Whangārei, within William Fraser Memorial Park alongside the Hātea River.
Is Pohe Island Skatepark free?
Yes, the skatepark is free to use and open daily as an outdoor public facility.
What features does Pohe Island Skatepark have?
The park includes a street-style zone with ledges, rails, stairs, skate kerb and bank ledge; a flow transition area with a spined mini ramp and additional features; and a beginner pump track and learner wheeled play area.
When was the skatepark redeveloped?
The $1.287 million redevelopment was completed and opened in March 2021. It was designed by Richard Smith of Rich Landscapes.
Is Pohe Island Skatepark suitable for beginners?
Yes, the redevelopment added a dedicated learner wheeled play environment and pump track area for newer riders to build skills.
What ages is the skatepark for?
The skatepark is open to all ages. Helmets are recommended for everyone and mandatory for riders under 18.
Is there parking at Pohe Island Skatepark?
Free parking is available at the Pohe Island carpark and near the bike park and dog park areas.
Are dogs allowed at the skatepark?
Dogs are allowed on-leash in most park areas but prohibited from sports grounds. A fenced dog exercise park is located nearby off Dave Culham Drive.
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