SonSk8: Building community, one trick at a time

Tucked down Omaru Lane in Glen Innes, you’ll find Son Sk8, New Zealand’s one and only indoor skatepark. SonSk8 is operated by East Skate, a charity-based space run by skate enthusiast Aaron Martin.

Aaron started East Skate as a labour of love back in 2020 hoping to create a safe space for youth who love to skate. Every dollar spent there goes directly back into keeping the doors open and improving the space for the community. The dream first came to mind when he experienced the lack of skateparks around East Auckland and wanted to create a shared place where youth, whānau and skate fanatics could ride and enjoy. As a key location in Glen Innes, the large warehouse is leased to them by neighbouring Grace International Church, which is home to other groups like the GI Eagles, and residents who utilise the shared building to partake in activities like ping pong and Tai Chi.

“Glen Innes and the wider east Auckland community have always been home to kids who love skating but often have limited access to safe facilities. Our roots are local, and I’ve seen firsthand how skateboarding can change lives. I’ve been skating for most of my life - rollerblading, skateboarding, and just about anything with wheels. I’ve dedicated my time and energy to making it accessible for young people who don’t always connect with traditional sports. I live, work, and raise my family here, so this isn’t just a project - it’s personal,” he says.

The SonSk8 team of volunteers run different programmes and lessons for people of all levels, and they deliver free after-school programmes funded by sports organisations, school clubs and outreach programmes. Using their East Skate contacts, they also coordinate community activations and events in outdoor parks across Auckland as opportunities to broaden their network and keep connected in the local skating world. The specialist crew ensure the services they provide are inclusive and they run fun classes for those living with neurodevelopmental conditions, ADHD, autism and other disabilities. Everyone is welcome to come along and take part. In just a few years, SonSk8 has engaged thousands of young people, provided a safe indoor venue during winter and evenings, and become a cornerstone for skate culture in east Auckland. Aaron says, “Skating keeps kids off devices, builds resilience, teaches risk-taking in a safe way, and gives them a community where they feel they belong. We’ve given tamariki and rangatahi a positive outlet, and we’ve built pathways for some riders to reach Olympic-level aspirations.

The coolest part is seeing people of all ages and backgrounds come together. To skate, chill and just hang out. Old people and youth, with different backgrounds and abilities. People who otherwise wouldn’t have connected outside of SonSk8 if we didn’t provide community spaces like this.” Although skating culture has been slowly fading over the years, Aaron is using his experience, connections, and passion to help reignite and grow his beloved sport. He is always on the lookout for partners and sponsors who are willing to lend a hand to help keep their doors open and lights on.

“Without community partnerships, a place like SonSk8 can’t exist. Our biggest barriers have been funding and awareness. Indoor skateparks aren’t cheap to run, and skating hasn’t always been recognised as a legitimate sport. For many, it’s the first time they’ve been part of something that isn’t about winning or losing, but about progression, creativity, and connection. We rely on local boards, schools, funders, and families to help keep the lights on, coaches employed, and ramps maintained. In return, we provide a space that grows healthy, connected, and active youth, and we prove our impact with data, partnerships, and stories of real lives changed.

A huge shout-out goes to our volunteers, parents, and local skaters who give their time and energy to keep things moving. The more people who back SonSk8, the more young people we can reach and the stronger the skate community becomes. So spread the word, bring your kids, book parties, volunteer time, or connect us with potential sponsors. Even small contribution - financial or in-kind - go a long way.”

You can read the full edition of the Mai Tāmaki Magazine for Spring 2025 online here.