The Tūpuna Maunga Authority is continuing its programme of improvements at Takarunga / Mt Victoria in Devonport, with construction beginning this November on the tennis courts and visitor bus parking area.
The project will see the existing dilapidated courts transformed into a recreation space featuring a dual basketball and tennis layout, informal play features for tamariki (children), integrated seating, accessible park furniture, and a new toilet block with accessible facilities. New native planting and raingardens will also improve biodiversity and stormwater management.
A widened loop road down from the courts will provide a dedicated tourist bus parking bay, with new landing and boxed steps connecting safely to the summit access road.
These works build on the recently completed revitalisation of the tihi (summit), where the removal of the carpark created new pathways, accessible seating, and extensive native planting. Together, these projects support the Authority’s vision to restore the mauri of the Maunga while creating safe and welcoming spaces for visitors.
Cultural narratives are central to the design, with mana whenua artist and research scholarship recipient, Arapeta Hākura embedding stories of migration, unity, and connection throughout the courts and bus facilities. These are expressed in decorative paving, patterned court surfaces, a games wall, and furniture inlays.
Tūpuna Maunga Authority Chair, Paul Majurey, says the project reflects the vision of the Authority’s Integrated Management Plan:
“These works continue the transformation of Takarunga / Mt Victoria. Following the revitalisation of the tihi, this next stage invests in recreation, access, and cultural design. Together, they give life to the vision of the Integrated Management Plan — protecting and restoring the mauri of the Maunga while creating safe, welcoming, and meaningful experiences for visitors.”
The works are scheduled to begin in November 2025 and continue over the summer months. Road closures and restricted access will be required at times, but traffic management and signage will be in place. Access for emergency services will be maintained throughout.
