A local council in New Zealand is taking a creative approach to a common park maintenance problem by supplying dirt to young mountain bikers so they can build their own jumps instead of digging up vegetation.
Selwyn District Council launched a pilot program during the recent school holidays, providing dirt for young cyclists to construct bike jumps at three parks in Leeston, Lincoln and Tai Tapu. The initiative has been well received by local families, prompting the council to expand the effort and consider additional locations.
Council Supplies Dirt for Young Riders
The project began after the council’s Parks and Reserves team noticed young people digging up soil in public parks to create their own bike jumps. While the activity gave kids somewhere to practice their skills, it also damaged vegetation and created additional maintenance challenges.
Rather than simply trying to stop the behavior, the council decided to give the young riders the materials they needed to build jumps more responsibly.
“We noticed that kids were digging up dirt in their local parks to create bike jumps and in the process they often destroyed the vegetation.” – Kieran Wall, Reserves Operations Manager at Selwyn District Council.
The council plans to deliver additional dirt, including clay that is better suited for shaping jumps, ahead of the upcoming school holidays.
More Bike Jump Locations Could Follow
Following the pilot’s success, the council plans to introduce another site at Foster Park in Rolleston. Officials are also considering expanding the program to West Melton and other townships throughout the district.
Signs at the existing locations include QR codes that allow riders and parents to submit feedback and suggest improvements. Community input will help determine how the program develops, while the council continues looking for suitable locations.
The approach offers a simple alternative to repeatedly repairing damaged parkland. By giving young riders the materials and space to build jumps, the council hopes to protect public green spaces while encouraging outdoor recreation and skill development.