News that McLeod Park in Te Atatū South has been chosen to be the home of the pro baseball team Auckland Tuatara has been welcomed by community leaders.
The West Auckland park was chosen to play host to the Tuatara for its first season and will host 12 games before moving to the QBE stadium in 2019.
The first games at the McLeod venue, which is also home to West City Baseball Club, will be a four-game series vs the Brisbane Bandits on 23-25 November.
Benefits to West Auckland
Waitākere Ward Councillor Linda Cooper welcomed the move and the benefits it will bring to West Auckland.
“Many people feel that international events can only happen in the CBD – but this shows that isn’t the case and West Auckland has much to offer.
“Choosing McLeod Park as the place the Auckland Tuatara team will call home is a testament to the park, its facilities and the local community who love their sport.
“It will also provide a boost to the local economy and help raise awareness of the fantastic places the west has to offer.”
Something for everyone
Shane Henderson, chair of Henderson-Massey Local Board says that the move shows the quality of the parks on offer in the area.
“With more parks than any other part of Auckland, Henderson-Massey has something for everyone.
“We are proud to host New Zealand’s first international pro baseball team in McLeod Park. I urge Te Atatū locals to come down and support the mighty Auckland Tuatara as they take on the Aussies this summer!”
Best venue for the job
Auckland Tuatara General Manager Ryan Flynn says McLeod park was the best venue for the job.
“When looking for a venue we looked at a few baseball facilities in Auckland, and McLeod Park was best-suited to accommodate the needs of putting on something of this magnitude.
“It isn’t just the playing arena that we had to consider but rather everything that goes with it. McLeod Park ticked the most boxes.
“We are pleased that we will be able to build a fan base starting at this local level and can’t wait for the season to start.”
Tickets for the games can be purchased on the door or via the Auckland Tuatara official site.
