Dedicated BMX enthusiast Cook Islander Tony Takurua whose passion for the sport extends beyond his personal pursuits is on a mission to advocate for the construction of a skate park.

The site for the new purpose-built recreational environment for skateboarding, BMX, and non-motorised scootering skate park is right next door to the pump track ‘The Rock Bike Park’ in Ngatangiia.

This pump truck which opened in August 2023, was Takurua’s dream and vision, and with the support of local businesses and the community, became a reality.

“Basically, our next stage is getting supporters to help with the build of the next stage, our skate park which will be used for cycling as well,” said Takurua, who wants the community to understand the benefits the park will have for the kids.

Takurua is reaching out to local businesses to “invest in our youth” and support the construction of a skate park for the current generation of riders and also to inspire future enthusiasts.

Based in New Zealand, Takurua’s experience in the sport goes back over 30 years. He was heavily involved in BMX NZ, he used to race in the BMX World Series, was a New Zealand Cycling selector, and a national constructor of BMX tracks throughout New Zealand.

He has seen firsthand the joy and camaraderie that BMX biking brings to children at the local pump track.

“This is also about a child’s mental health, and well-being,” he said.

With his vision he wants to create a space that nurtures skill development, creativity, and community engagement.

BMX biking has featured in the Olympic Games since the 2008 Beijing Olympics. The International Olympic Committee endorsed BMX Freestyle as an Olympic Sport where it first featured at Toyko in 2020.

Takurua believes the skate park will offer the opportunity to our kids to one day achieve their Olympic dream.

He said that the goal was to give the local children a purpose to see through their abilities to represent Cook Islands on the international stage.

Takurua returns to Rarotonga often and visits the bike park where he is kept busy fixing kids bike, and cleaning the area.

He acknowledged the “great supporters” who assisted with the pump track project, and  Pa Marie Ariki for the gift of the land.

In October, the second Cook Islands BMX Pump Track Nationals was held at The Rock Bike Park.

Three of Takurua’s children, Holly, Trent and Josh, have represented New Zealand BMX nationally and internationally, raced in the world championships, and Trent has represented NZ at the Olympics. His eldest son Damien has represented New Zealand and the Cook Islands in rugby league.

Everyone is welcome to use pump track in Ngatangiia which is open during daylight hours. People must respect the neighbours, and the church next door, said Takurua.

The Rock Bike Park rules are: No motorbikes, alcohol, smoking or vaping, no e-bikes or motorised scooters, no littering, ride only on the track, and wear bike helmets at all times. All users do so at their own risk.