Tamahere’s central playground and skatepark shone under blue skies and bright sunshine as it was officially opened today.

In a ceremony led by Ngati Haua kaumatua Sonny Karena the park on Wiremu Tamihana Dr was blessed, ribbons were cut and then the area circumnavigated by a happy crowd of children, adults and community leaders.

The group then gathered in front of an assembly of Tamahere School students whose kapa haka roopu impressed.

Tamahere Park’s new skatepark and playground will be officially opened at 1pm on Friday, June 28.

The ceremonial opening of the park, already drawing huge crowds at weekends, is a way to mark a real milestone for the Tamahere community, says Tamahere councillor Aksel Bech.

Tamahere School’s 70-member Kapa Haka Roopu will be part of the haka powhiri, performing its own haka for the first time.

Tamahere Lions are appealing for community support for barbecue facilities it is developing in the Tamahere Park.

The ground work and floor slab have been completed and the Lions are now raising funds for the rest of the project in the central Tamahere recreation area.

The plan is for a double electric barbecue and two sets of seating under an attractive weatherproof shelter.