Construction on an impressive new cycle track at Te Horo School has recently been completed.

Based in the small settlement of Pipiwai, the track is nestled into the gently sloping hillside at the rear of the school field. It is long and testing, providing many challenges for those cycling its terrain.

When funding became available, the Board of Trustees decided that creating a cycle track would be of major benefit to their students, as well as the wider community.

Pipwai Road is used by many logging trucks and heavy vehicles, so the Board decided their tamariki needed a safe place to ride their bikes. Aside from this, other reasons to create the track were identified such as providing a new place for tamariki to ride their bikes away from the school’s only court and the fact that many students had asked for a cycle track after seeing and hearing about other schools who had built their own.

Now that the track has been completed, the Board have identified a number of outcomes they hope will eventuate from the track. These include:

• Tamariki building their self-confidence and skills in riding bikes.
• Encouraging active play opportunities.
• Developing enjoyment and appreciation of outdoor recreation.
• Encouraging the community use of the facility.
• Developing closer relationships with the community.
• Whānau enjoying wholesome physical activity together.
• Foster the values of sharing and caring amongst tamariki.

When discussing their thoughts on the new track, the bumps seem to be a highlight with students saying, “the bumps make it interesting, you fly in the air when you go over the bumps and it’s very bumpy, very cool.” Other reasons students enjoy it include “you can do tricks on it, and the air swishes over your face when you ride down the hill.”

Te Horo School has a vision for all their students to become confident and capable, life-long learners who overcome learning challenges and achieve their potential. This vision aligns closely to the physical demands and opportunities that the school’s new track will provide.

Sport Northland is sharing this as part of our Healthy Active Learning kaupapa on behalf of Te Horo School. If you want to know more about Healthy Active Learning contact us on ph 09 437 9600.