Bowls clubs could also be sold

Christine Fletcher. Photo / NZ Herald

A review of Auckland Council's sport and recreation assets not only involves 13 golf clubs valued at $200 million-plus, but also all the council's many bowling clubs.

Christine Fletcher, chairwoman of the parks, recreation and sport committee, revealed that bowling clubs and golf clubs were under review.

Asked about the potential for golf course sales for housing after the council finishes its sport and recreation study, Fletcher said, "It is too early to comment on golf courses, or for that matter bowling clubs being available for housing."

She understood the potential for public angst over the review, which is examining all the valuable greenfield assets.

Asked about the sale of the golf courses spanning more than 160ha and valued at $200 million-plus, Fletcher said their future, along with that of bowling clubs, was yet to be decided.

"Council officers are now working on a region-wide sports facility network plan. This important piece of policy will be reported back inside of this financial year. It is looking at population growth in green and brownfield areas, demographics, sports codes, changes to ethnicities and sporting requirements and financial sustainability of clubs. This plan is under the direction of Dean Kimpton," Fletcher said, referring to the council's chief operating officer.

"It will likely identify some changes and rationalisation to our existing sports and recreation infrastructure.

"This may be controversial. We need to take an evidence-based approach to planning for our sporting and recreational facilities and this is the framework that will support decisions."