Puketawhero Park – Centennial Lions Project

They have spent the past few years discussing with young people what their space could look like and be talking with the community.

They held workshops with Eastside schools about what they would like to see and took young people out to other youth spaces.

One of the Youth Space’s features is a community stage, which the Rotorua East Lions worked on.

It is the only outdoor community stage in Rotorua with mobility access, and 1113 hours were spent on its building.

Rotorua East Lions Club president Linda Cousins said it was wonderful to have this space officially opened.

“It was amazing to see a lot of the community, especially the rangatahi, marveling at the space.”

She said the Lions Club was a service organization and a way they could give back and be involved in the community.

The toddler bike track is almost complete

The work that had been done on the Youth Space would be a legacy in years to come, she said.

“We were privileged to be a part of the work out at Puketawhero Park, and our work began with the Mokoia Community Association.

“We would like to thank them for allowing us to be a part of a community project on such a grand scale.”

She said it would be interesting to watch the Youth Space grow.

As well as the stage, features include a basketball half court, skate park and play areas.