1280 days ago

$6.4 million multi-sport centre opens doors in Ōtara

Caryn Wilkinson Reporter from Community News

A $6.4 million sports centre has reopened in Otara after a major facelift.

The Ngati Otara Multi-sport and Cultural Centre boasts a new clubroom, kitchen, changing rooms and first-aid centre at Ngati Otara Park.

The south-Auckland building comprises a laundromat for sports kit along with a first-aid room and a cafe/bar for members of the community.

Health services will be provided there at the Whanau Ora Medical Clinic.

Pacific Homecare will hold its Fia Ola (Want to Live) programmes for older residents at the complex.

Manukau Ward councillor Fa'anana Efeso Collins said earlier the upgrade would help develop and retain sporting talent in a disadvantaged community.

The Ngāti Ōtara sports centre was pivotal to the growth and development of local sports in Ōtara, he said.

"It gives local sports codes like rugby league, kilikiti, tag and netball decent playing areas where our local athletes will excel."

Auckland mayor Phil Goff said the new complex transformed the old facilities.

"This investment by Auckland Council recognises that Otara deserves a decent 21st-century sports facility that encourages our young people into sport and inspires them to realise their potential," he said.

Five different sports and more than 150 teams would use the facilities, he said.

Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board chair Apulu Reece Autagavaia said he grew up playing kilikiti (cricket) on the fields nearby.

"I remember, as a kid, it was my job to fetch stray kilikiti balls that made their way on the deteriorating roof.

“The previous building was dark, old and no longer fit for purpose. It feels incredible to be able to provide a beautiful, brand new building to the community we can all enjoy and be proud of. "

Image
More messages from your neighbours
4 days ago

Poll: Is it rude to talk on the phone on a bus?

The Team from Neighbourly.co.nz

Buses can be a relaxing way to get home if you have a seat and enough space. However, it can be off-putting when someone is taking a phone call next to you.

Do you think it's inconsiderate for people to have lengthy phone calls on a bus? Vote in the poll, and add your comments below.

Image
Is it rude to talk on the phone on a bus?
  • 63.9% Yes
    63.9% Complete
  • 33.6% No
    33.6% Complete
  • 2.6% Other - I'll share below
    2.6% Complete
2583 votes
1 day ago

Weekend laugh

Derek from Papatoetoe

Morning everyone a beautiful fine day for the start of the weekend. Looks like summer is finally coming. You weekend laugh is here

Image
2 days ago

Become an SPCA Foster Hero!

The Team from SPCA Auckland - Centres & Op Shops

Kitten season has arrived, and over the next six months, over 8,000 cats and kittens will come into SPCA’s care. Please help us give these babies the best start in life and sign up to be a foster parent today! It's not just cats and kittens - we are also urgently seeking foster homes for dogs and small animals.

Fostering saves lives and helps these tiny babies grow into healthy, well-adjusted adults, ready for adoption. We cover all training and costs. All you need is time and love to spare!

Sign up today and save a life!