Multi-purpose sports hub to hit drawing board

Te Hiku Sports Hub Inc chairperson David Senior.

Designs will soon be on the drawing board for the long-awaited, multi-purpose sports hub at Moerua Park in Kaitaia.

New netball courts, playing fields and clubhouse facilities for rugby, league, football, cricket, athletics, archery and possibly an aquatic centre are in the mix for the design job now in the hands of Opus International Consultants Ltd.

The contract from Far North District Council includes designing flood prevention measures, storm water and drainage improvements and irrigation systems.

The letting of the contract is not the only progress on the sports hub project. Te Hiku Community Board has approved a $6000 grant for Te Hiku Sports Hub Inc to promote the project in the community.

Board chairman Lawrie Atkinson said the hub would provide the Te Hiku area with the sporting and recreational facilities it needs and deserves.

"The sports hub is a fantastic development for Kaitaia and everyone in the Te Hiku area. It is important we all get behind it and turn it into a reality," Mr Atkinson said.

Te Hiku Sports Hub Inc chairperson David Senior said the grant would help the group develop feasibility and business plans. "That means we can now go and talk to potential funders."

The council set aside $2.56 million in its Long Term Plan 2015-25 for the hub's design, planning and physical works. It will set a targeted rate in Te Hiku Ward if the community can raise $5.5 million to see the aquatic centre included.

Te Hiku Sports Hub Inc will hold a public meeting at Far North REAP, 33 Puckey Ave, Kaitaia, on June 20, 5.30pm to update the community.