A clear example of the Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board advocacy in action - delivering meaningful support the community can count on.
In December 2024, Sunnyside Tennis Club, based in Sunnyside Reserve, Papatoetoe and marking 75 years in 2025, shared a note of thanks to the board for their recent practical support.
One issue the club faced was signage. Years ago, a sign at Puhinui and York Road helped people find the club, tucked away in a park. Over time, it disappeared and was never replaced. As a result, visitors and even locals often struggled to find the club, with some ending up at another similarly named club.
After months of going back and forth with several agencies, the club contacted the local board.
Soon after, a new sign was installed, and the club has received positive feedback from people who can now find the courts more easily.
Another recent challenge involved someone sleeping near the club entrance, who had a dog with them. While this person was not causing harm, the location raised safety and comfort concerns, especially for young players and visiting teams.
The club reached out to the appropriate agencies for help but was met with delays and unclear responses.
Eventually, the local board was contacted, and within a few days, they worked with support services to step in and assist. The person and their dog were connected to the help they needed, and a more suitable place to stay was found.
This helped the club restore a safe, welcoming space and, equally important, ensured the individual was treated with care and dignity.
Board deputy chair Vi Hausia shares, “I'm really proud we could support Sunnyside Tennis Club. Sometimes it's the small, practical wins that make the biggest difference for our local groups. With this fix sorted, they can get back to doing what they love — playing tennis and bringing the community together.”
Sunnyside Tennis is a small, volunteer-run club focused on families and junior development. After a tough run during COVID-19, they’re rebuilding - with a new junior coach and strong community support making a real difference.
The help from the board has been a key part of this progress. With improved visibility, a safer environment, and a clear focus on being family-friendly, Sunnyside Tennis is on a positive path forward.
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