The skate park was the place to hang out "nek minnit" style on Sunday.

Kids from tots to teenagers took turns on skateboards, scooters and bicycles trying out the cycle circuit and skateboard ramps at Ostend's Tawaipareira Reserve.

Time trials were carried out on the newly finished bike track but the centre of attention was the recently constructed half-pipe.

While skateboarders practised, artists Matthew Muir, Justin Beaver and Tony Rowe were busy decorating the half-pipe with street art created with paint and spray cans.

Finishing the half-pipe was just a part of the special youth day event jointly organised by Piritahi Hau Ora, Living Without Violence, the Waiheke Health Trust and the Waiheke Police. Called Love the Skin You're In, the day's special guest skateboarder Levi Hawken epitomised what it was all about.

Famous for his viral video and catchphrase "nek minnit", Levi lives with the condition ectodermal dysplasia which affects his hair and teeth.

The skateboarder spent time chatting with members of the crowd and showed off his skills on the half-pipe.

Painting the half-pipe was organised by the Red Shed Arts Trust with backing from the Waiheke Local Board.

Trust chairwoman Lyndal Jefferies says the idea was to paint the ramp once and paint it well using local street art reflecting the island community.

"As everyone will have a chance to be involved in the design and painting process we hope this will inspire respect for our new ramp and it won't be tagged and disrespected in the future," she says.

"We also want to put the message out that island youth are valued.

"They have a voice and a place within our community and we celebrate them."

- Waiheke Marketplace