After 16 months of work, Waiuku College’s refurbished gymnasium is open.
That’s great news for the school’s 900-odd students and the Waiuku public, who used the gymnasium regularly outside school hours before it was closed to repair leaky building problems.
Forecast to take six months, much more significant work than at first envisaged, has instead taken 16 months, and now school principal Tom Vanderlaan is keen to see the public return.
“Most weeks the gym was being used five out of seven nights and we would love to see that happening again.
“Basketball used it a lot, there are good badminton and volleyball courts, netballers used it when wet weather hit and its great for indoor football.
“But it’s also about sharing a facility with the community to make the most out of it.”
The college now boasts two gyms, the old facility and the refurbished site, something Mr Vanderlaan says is a “luxury” for a school of its size. “It also means the school would be a wonderful place for tournaments because there are several courts available.”
Franklin Local Board chair Andy Baker says the agreement that allows the public to access the facility is great for the community and the board was delighted to fund roading and car-parking at the gym to make access easier.
“It means a terrific facility can be enjoyed by all our people and I’m sure basketball won’t be the only sport itching to get back there.
“It also helps build a connection with the college, which is such a critical part of the community.”
To make a booking call the school on 09 235 8139 or email office@waiuku-college.school.nz
