Merchant banker Sam Kelt is donating $1 million to a proposed Hawke's Bay sports park.
Mr Kelt is making the donation regardless of whether a company he owns manages the $35 million project, Hawke's Bay Today reported.
Hastings District Council signed a $1.03 million deal to buy a 17ha block last year to build the park.
Kelt Capital's role would include obtaining funding and sponsorship, and possibly helping clubs relocate to the stadium.
Mr Kelt was initially asked to be a naming sponsor for the Hawke's Bay Opera House, opened in April, but that role went to Hawke's Bay businessman Sir Selwyn Cushing, the newspaper reported.
Mr Kelt, who was in the news this year after being bashed in Mt Maunganui, already sponsors the Hawke's Bay Magpies rugby team, was instrumental in developing a hockey academy and sponsors New Zealand's richest horse race the $1 million Kelt Capital Stakes.
Kelt Capital's plan for the park will be put to the council in about two weeks.
Hastings Mayor Lawrence Yule said if Kelt Capital was not accepted, the council would have to look at other consultants to manage the project.
Mr Kelt lives in Havelock North and is still recovering from head injuries from the assault.
"We are involved in a lot of things that are sport-driven but I think it's just a good way to support the people and the children of the province," Mr Kelt said.
- NZPA
Banker donates $1 million for sports stadium
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