Last updated July 2026
Marine Parade Pump Track is a free, family-friendly pump track in central Napier offering around 500 m of continuous rolling track on a compact 60 m by 30 m site. Located on Marine Parade opposite Ellison Street, it suits BMX, mountain bike, scooter, skateboard and rollerblade riders of all skill levels. The track was completed in March 2015 and remains one of the most popular wheeled-sports facilities in the city.
Practical Information
| Location | Marine Parade, opposite Ellison Street entrance, south of the carpark |
| Size | 60 m long by 30 m wide; ~500 m of continuous track |
| Features | Rollers, berms and small jumps; Swiss-inspired design |
| Suits | BMX, MTB, scooters, skateboards, rollerblades — all ages and abilities |
| Cost | Free, no booking required |
| Parking | Free on-street parking along Marine Parade and nearby streets |
| Facilities | Picnic tables, BBQs, public toilets and cafés nearby |
| Open | Daylight hours, year-round |
| Completed | March 2015 |
About Marine Parade Pump Track
The Marine Parade Pump Track is a Napier City Council facility on the Marine Parade foreshore reserve. It was the first pump track of its kind in New Zealand and was designed by Jeff Carter of South Star Adventures, drawing inspiration from a track in Mendrisio, Switzerland. Riders generate speed by pumping the rollers and berms rather than pedalling, building skills that transfer to many wheeled sports.
The layout includes multiple connected lines with rollers, berms and small jumps. Beginners can ride slowly to learn the technique while more experienced riders can maintain higher speeds and link sections fluidly. The track sits beside the May & Peter Harris Playground and Bay Skate skate park, making it a convenient central stop.
Because the facility is free and centrally located, it works well for spontaneous family visits or as part of a longer outing along the Marine Parade foreshore. Helmets are strongly recommended for all users.
Who It Suits
The track is designed for a wide range of users. Young children on balance bikes or scooters can practise at low speed, while families often ride together at different paces. Skateboarders and scooter riders share the surface comfortably with BMX and mountain-bike users. Intermediate riders use it to refine pumping and cornering technique. For more advanced dirt-jump features, visitors typically head to the Taradale Dirt Park facility.
Nearby Marine Parade Attractions
The pump track forms part of a cluster of free and low-cost attractions along the foreshore. Adjacent facilities include the large May & Peter Harris Playground and Bay Skate concrete skate park. A short distance north lies the National Aquarium of New Zealand, the Sound Shell and Par 2 MiniGolf. The Marine Parade swimming pool complex and numerous cafés and restaurants are also within easy walking distance.
What Visitors Often Say
Reviewers praise the track as one of Napier’s best free family activities. The continuous 500 m layout allows beginners to ride slowly while advanced riders flow through at speed. Its central location next to the playground and skate park makes it easy to combine with other foreshore attractions.
Visitors recommend arriving early on busy summer weekends and bringing a variety of wheeled equipment. Public toilets and drinking water are available nearby along Marine Parade. Many families pair a session at the pump track with time at the adjacent playground.
Where to Learn More
Napier City Council — Pump Track: official page with location details, design history and current status.
Napier NZ — Marine Parade: visitor guide covering the pump track and surrounding foreshore attractions.
Hawke’s Bay NZ — Cycle Skills Tracks: regional overview of pump tracks and skills facilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Marine Parade Pump Track located?
On Marine Parade in central Napier, opposite the Ellison Street entrance and south of the carpark.
Is the Marine Parade Pump Track free to use?
Yes, it is completely free with no booking required and is open during daylight hours year-round.
What equipment can be used on the track?
BMX bikes, mountain bikes, scooters, skateboards and rollerblades are all suitable for riders of any skill level.
When was the Marine Parade Pump Track completed?
The track opened in March 2015 and was the first pump track of its kind in New Zealand.
Are helmets required?
Helmets are strongly recommended for all riders in line with council and community expectations.
How does Marine Parade compare with Taradale Dirt Park?
Marine Parade offers a central family-friendly pump track only. Taradale includes a pump track plus beginner and extreme dirt-jump lines.
Is parking available nearby?
Free on-street parking is available along Marine Parade and adjoining streets.
Can the track be used in all weather?
The concrete surface is usable year-round, though riders should check conditions after heavy rain.
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