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Whangaparāoa School has three upgraded ramps for scooters and skaters thanks to the efforts of student-led group, Scamps – the scooter and skateboard ramp task force.
The original ramps were damaged with holes from over-use and suspected weekend vandals, which had caused injuries ranging from wrist sprains to knocked out teeth.
The group’s planning, emailing and advocacy, led by students Robert Lelievre and Guy Gager, has paid off with the re-build taking place on Saturday May 25.
The upgrade was funded by Scamps’ Give-a-Little page, where more than $100 was raised in two weeks.
Families were a big help, too, with four volunteer Dads completing the build with materials donated by construction business, Renovo.
Scamps, which is made up of 14 keen riders in Years 5 and 6, formed at the start of May with the goal of creating a safer space for riders.
The group has also been given its own trial space away from the bikers to use during break times. The equipment also has wheels so it can be moved and secured outside of school times.
The group’s next project is to fundraise for more equipment, including a mini half pipe. Members also plan to give back to the school by teaching juniors how to ride, and encourage them to get off their devices.
“It can be a beautiful day and you sometimes still see people inside looking at screens,” Guy says. “We want to get people outside because you never know what day will be your last!”
