BMX track taking shape nicely at Guthrie Park

Construction of a new BMX track in Havelock North is on schedule. Photo/Supplied

A 7000sq m BMX track included in the Hastings District Council's extension of Havelock's Guthrie Park is beginning to take shape.

Romanes Reserve, on Romanes Dr, Havelock North, is currently being transformed to accommodate new soccer fields and a national standard BMX track.

Hawke's Bay BMX Club chairman Anthony Shaw said the track was coming along nicely.

"All the basic shapes are there; the start hill, the berms, and the drainage has gone in."

The Hawke's Bay BMX Club, founded in 2010 with 60 members, had been yearning for a full-sized track for years.

Mr Shaw said once completed the track will host a national qualifying meet in February next year.

The following season, it was hoped it would host the central region BMX champs.

The ultimate goal was for the track to host the national champs.

Mr Shaw said the track would attract pro BMX riders to the region.

7000cu m, or 1200 truckloads, of surplus dirt will be used to build the new track, which will feature a starting gate that stands 5m high.

The extension of Guthrie Park is expected to cost up to $700,000.

The council is paying for the construction of the soccer fields and the $100,000 to $130,000 required to build the BMX track will be raised through community fundraising efforts.

The Hawke's Bay BMX club will lease the track from the council.

Mr Shaw said a quiz night held by the club in May had raised more than $6500.

The club was also selling tickets to a dinner fundraiser at the Thirsty Whale, Napier, arranged for August.

The club was interested in local businesses backing the track and online donations could be made to its Givealittle page.

Hastings District Council parks and property assets manager Colin Hosford said despite some inclement weather over the last month, the redevelopment of Romanes Reserve remains on track for completion in October.

"The playing fields are ready for grassing and this will be completed during the next dry spell.

"The contractors, Fulton Hogan are currently working on excavation and forming of the driveway and carpark.

"Council is pleased with the progress being made on this project, especially as the recent rain has had quite a severe impact on ground works."

To help the Hawke's Bay BMX Club build the BMX track, visit www.givealittle.co.nz/org/hbbmx