A popular suburban Waiuku park, home to rugby league, has had a strategic assessment approved by Franklin Local Board.
Waiuku subdivision representative Sharlene Druyven says the 1.6 hectares of Hamilton Estate Recreation Reserve contain a community hall, playground, and mature exotic trees.
“But probably the dominant feature is the rugby league field and lighting that make it home to the Mighty Waiuku Toa junior teams.
“The hall has been leased to Marama Hou Ministries Trust, an organisation focusing on community development, for some time. It is a valued and well-used asset.”
A strategic assessment helps determine the recreational outcomes to be considered, and to that end, discussions have also been held with stakeholders.
Out of that process, various improvements have been recommended, and once reviewed and approved by the board, they will guide decision-making around future development.
The reserve is zoned open space – sport and active recreation. In recent years the trust that leases the hall has expanded to support a food security initiative, but the hall is at storage capacity.
“It’s clear there are competing priorities and demands around the park,” Druyven says.
“This assessment seeks to determine the best fit for the park, and where additional activities can be accommodated.”
Renewal recommendations in a building assessment focus on removing a shower to create storage space, toilet upgrades, accessibility improvements and electrical work.
Druyven says the community has indicated a basketball facility would be welcome, and the inclusion of a halfcourt has been recommended.
“We’re a long way from seeing changes, but it’s sensible to have a plan. We should see a draft plan later in the year.”
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