Supporting the needs, aspirations and priorities of our host communities is core to how we approach social investment. After five years of working together with the Waihi Community Forum on planning and fundraising, we are proud to celebrate the grand opening of the new Waihi Pump Track in New Zealand — a world-class facility that promotes fitness, fun, and community connection.
The Waihi Pump Track officially opened on Saturday, June 7, 2025 with hundreds of people in attendance.
Developing a vibrant community hub
On Saturday, June 7, 2025, the pump track officially opened, with the event attracting over 600 people. Since then, the track has been buzzing with riders of all ages and abilities. This vibrant community hub reflects the voices of local school children and seasoned riders alike. It’s also a powerful testament to the collaboration between the community, council, and our Waihi Operation team.
Kyle Welten, External Affairs and Social Performance Manager at our Waihi Operation, has been involved since the beginning.
“It’s exciting to see the community’s vision come to life,” he said. “Waihi is a fantastic town, and it’s a privilege to be part of OceanaGold’s ongoing efforts to make a positive impact here. I know my kids are going to love it.”
OceanaGold contributed NZD $150,000 (USD $90,500) to the project through our Sponsorships and Donations Program, alongside our role as representatives on the Waihi Community Forum. We also provided support for administrative costs.
“We work closely with our local community. We are an integral part of Waihi’s economy and activity, with many of our staff living in town or nearby. It’s important to us that the town thrives. What is good for Waihi is good for us,” Kyle said.
Built to international standards, the track has the potential to attract local and international riders and exclusive events, bringing even more visitors to Waihi. Kyle added that the track was designed to prioritize inclusivity, ensuring accessible features for wheelchair users.
“The opening event brought together everyone from national champions to a local preschooler who taught herself to ride without training wheels just in time for the big day. That, to me, is a golden achievement,” Kyle said.
Waihi Community Forum: Breathing life into neighbourhood projects
This milestone comes after five years of planning and fundraising by the Waihi Community Forum, a charitable trust formed over 13 years ago. Made up of five community representatives, two council representatives, and two representatives from OceanaGold, the Waihi Community Forum acts as a conduit between residents, Hauraki District Council (HDC) and the Company.
The Waihi Community Forum runs a “Streets Ahead” initiative aimed at improving the areas where mining takes place and has partnered with OceanaGold, HDC and a number of external funders to carry out a number of community projects.
Now that the pump track is complete, the Waihi Community Forum is turning its attention to the next stage of the project, which includes a new skatepark and BBQ area.
From left to right: OceanaGold employees Rebecca Tinonel (Resource Development Geologist Underground), and Natasha Smith (Geologist) supported the grand opening event.
