Trust Tairāwhiti has approved up to $6.9 million to fund phase one of the Victoria Sports and Recreation Hub in Gisborne, marking the largest single investment ever made by the Trust.
The funding commitment also includes underwriting phase two, which allows the Hub to attract other investors to elevate sports facilities and sporting talent while fostering community connectedness.
Trust Tairāwhiti chief executive Doug Jones said the upgrades will have wide and long-term positive impacts for the region.
“The upgrades benefit multiple sports codes and enhance recreational opportunities now and for future generations. The project has been in the pipeline for a number of years, and we’re excited that the Trust’s significant investment will make it a reality for Tairāwhiti.”
Phase one focuses on upgrading and repurposing the netball courts at Victoria Domain. This project includes resurfacing nine asphalt netball courts with the addition of three multi-use rebound ace surfaces suitable for netball, basketball, tennis, and pickleball. It also involves demolishing and replacing the existing netball tower facility and conducting a carbon footprint assessment to evaluate the environmental impact of court resurfacing.
The project is part of the Tairāwhiti Community Facilities ‘Early Wins’ initiative, addressing aging infrastructure highlighted in the 2018 Regional Community Facilities Strategy.
Victoria Domain and its surrounding facilities were identified as a priority project due to their central location in the community. The Victoria Sport and Recreation Hub (VSRH) was established in 2022 as a shared governance board, including different codes and skilled representatives.
The hub has supported the growth of Surf City Squash, Gisborne Tennis Center, Gisborne Netball Center, Eastland Badminton, Gisborne Pickleball, Gisborne Basketball Association and the Gisborne YMCA. The hub has also worked closely with Gisborne Intermediate, Gisborne District Council and Whiti Ora Tairāwhiti to enhance access and casual use of the facilities.
“We’re absolutely rapt that the redevelopment of the courts at Victoria Domain is finally happening after years of attempts and planning. The new courts will benefit thousands of people in our community and will be a hive of activity!” says Whiti Ora Tairāwhiti chief executive Stefan Pishief.
“We commend the codes, clubs, schools and organisations involved for their perseverance and desire to work together for the greater good. We also need to acknowledge the critical role played by the Victoria Sport and Recreation Hub, Architects 44, the Gisborne District Council and of course, Trust Tairāwhiti for their significant financial contribution and support that enabled this to happen.”
Beyond infrastructure improvements, the project aims to enhance local talent, foster cross-code collaboration and strengthen community ties. It aligns with the Trust’s strategic focus on spaces and facilities that enhance the quality of life in Tairāwhiti.
The project not only focuses on physical upgrades but considers cultural factors, aligning with the Trust’s wellbeing framework, He Rangitapu He Tohu Ora. A cultural report details the site’s history, originally part of the Tūranganui No. 2 block and highlights connections to Ngāi Tawhiri hapu of Rongowhakaata and Te Whānau-a-Iwi hapu of Te Aitanga-a-Mahaki.
Historically, Victoria Domain has been a vital community hub, hosting over 1,600 Netball players annually. The redevelopment ensures future generations will enjoy modern, high-quality sports and event facilities.
“Tairāwhiti has a young and active population. This investment ensures we can meet the growing demand for sports like pickleball, basketball and netball while creating a space that brings our community together for generations to come,” says Doug.
Construction of phase one is set to begin in January 2025, with completion expected by May 2025. Future phases include new covered courts and broader facility enhancements.