The bike park, in Runbrake St, was the second of its kind to officially open in as many weeks following the launch of the Kurow bike park over Queen's Birthday weekend.
After the cutting of a red ribbon by Waitaki Mayor Gary Kircher and Waihemo Community Board chairwoman Kathy Dennison, more than 20 children took to the road.
The marked asphalt loop features a roundabout, several give way signs, a single-lane wooden bridge and a one-way section.
Bike and scooter riders thundered around the loop for about half an hour before their energy waned, which was quickly boosted in the form of sausages, courtesy of members the Puketapu scout group on the barbecue.
After that, it was all go.
Phoebe Fox, of Palmerston, brought her children along.
"It's a lot more fun for the kids," she said. "They used to use the BMX track at Naseby."
Jake Harkness (8), of Waikouaiti, enjoyed his first ride and said he would return as soon as he could.
Mr Kircher said the turnout was encouraging and he was confident the park would be well used.
"We've done this to create another family-friendly amenity for Palmerston and I think the number of kids that have turned out means it's proving to be a hit.
"It provides a different surface and it's all going to help keep the kids entertained and allow them to be outside more, and give them more confidence on bikes and scooters."
A small mountain bike track next to the bike park will open in about two weeks, he said.
The bike park was funded by the council, Alexander McMillan Trust and Oceania Gold.
