An east Auckland ice rink transforms every Thursday morning into a lively arena of costumes and camaraderie as local adults skate in their weekly class.
They turn heads and lift spirits with their elaborate outfits and infectious enthusiasm.
The group of skaters from all walks of life and ages has been meeting at Paradice Ice Skating Rink Botany for more than a year, says organiser Bree Mitchell.
“Themed Thursdays started off as a bit of a joke. Our coach Gordon Rushton made a joke about us all wearing black and suggested it was somewhat dull.
“Siezing the opportunity to have a little fun, the following week we surprised him by dressing in the brightest, most outrageous colours we could find.
“We had so much fun, and with Halloween the next week we decided to dress up then too.
“However, Gordon didn’t join in on our fancy dress, so we all dressed up as him the following week and it’s hilarious we’ve come up with a new theme every Thursday since,” says Bree.
“Our skating classes are so much fun. It’s been absolutely amazing to find a group of people who are so caring, supportive, encouraging and hilarious,” says Bree.
“It doesn’t matter what skill level you are, your age, shape or what your goals are, everyone is welcome. That’s pretty cool, absolutely the highlight of my week.”
Rushton says adult skaters of all levels can join in, from seasoned pros to those still mastering the basics.
“For them, the focus is on fun, community, and self-expression. I love coaching this group,” he says.
“They’re enthusiastic, committed, and always willing to give everything a go.
“The way they support each other, bring encouragement, and add a sense of fun to the ice is truly inspiring.
“Seeing adults come together to skate with such joy and creativity proves it’s never too late to learn something new or find your passion,” Rushton says.
“Watching their skills grow week by week – while having so much fun – is what makes coaching so rewarding.”
Some of the skaters bring their families and friends to watch and join in the festivities.
“I’m incredibly grateful to have such an amazing coach Gordy who is patient and respectful,” says Sylvia Xie.
“He not only teaches us valuable skating skills but also inspires our love for the sport and makes every lesson so much fun.
“I look forward to every class. I’m also lucky to have such wonderful classmates who have become true friends.
“We encourage and support each other like family. I’m so appreciative we have Paradice, one of New Zealand’s best rinks, where we’ve made unforgettable memories and had so much fun together,” says Sylvia.
Another adult skater Kirsty Salisbury says the classes are “absolutely amazing, quickly becoming the highlight of my week – something I never expected!
“I love how supportive everyone is, with each of us encouraged to reach our own personal best within the group.”
The rink staff at Paradice Ice Skating Rink Botany are supportive of the group’s passion for dressing up in costumes.
“They bring such a wonderful energy,” says facility manager Scott Willdridge.
“It’s inspiring to see a group come together with so much joy, and their spirit really encourages others to join in the fun.”
Bree says: “We managed to get our act together and compete this season, a real treat.
“The organisers of the local club competitions very kindly put in a Theatre on Ice category for us.
“We had a grand time busting out our Star Wars routine, complete with cloaks and light sabres.
“We’re moving onto a new routine for the Allegro competition in December.
“It’s fourteen of us on the ice as dinosaurs looking for a new home, wearing inflatable costumes. I mean, what could possibly go wrong? It’s going to be hilarious,” Bree says.
The adult ice-skaters conclude by inviting others to join them, reminding the community that “everyone – no matter their age or skill level – is welcome on the ice”.
