$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. "