Source: Radio New Zealand
A supplied AI-generated image of what the Tūparikino Hub is expected to look like. Supplied
A traditional symbol of connection will embrace visitors when they enter the arena at the $50 million Tūparikino Active Community Hub when it opens in New Plymouth racecourse in 2028.
With groundworks and design work done and the project on budget, the district council said, construction will begin in May.
The indoor arena will host sport, recreation and cultural activities, and feature six basketball or netball-sized courts that can be configured into 12 volleyball courts, 16 badminton or pickleball courts, or three futsal courts.
The façade design symbolises two interlocking hīnaki (woven eel nets), traditionally used by mana whenua to gather tuna (eels) from the nearby river.
Ngāti Tūparikino spokesperson Rita Rukuwai said it acknowledged the shared history of Ngāti Te Whiti and Ngāti Tūparikino, reflecting both the past and the future of the site as a place where communities came together.
“Tuna was a staple food source for Māori and represents the relationships woven over time between the two hapū, and the importance of their connection to the local landscape and waterways.
“We felt this represented not only the historical significance of this site, but also the connections that will continue to grow within the Tūparikino Hub. This place will see many different groups of people coming together for health, well-being and prosperity.”
New Plymouth firm Clelands Construction was awarded the construction contract for the indoor arena which would include an upper-level community space for local organisations and groups, a café, and event facilities.
Mayor Max Brough said the project was significant for the local economy.
Mayor Max Brough. LDR /Te Korimako o Taranaki
“This will support jobs for more than 20 local subcontractors and suppliers at a time when the construction industry is feeling the pinch, so the benefits of this building work will flow back into our community.”
Brough said the stadium had been designed as a flexible and accessible space that could support a wide range of activities, from grassroots recreation and school groups to cultural performances, regional tournaments and everyday community use.
Additional playing fields inside the racecourse would be developed as further funding became available.
Sport Taranaki chief executive, Michael Carr, said the Tūparikino Hub would have far-reaching benefits for the region’s sport, recreation and well-being.
“Tūparikino will be a place that inspires people to be active, to connect and to belong.
“It will bring together people from across codes, activities, ages and backgrounds. The benefits will extend well beyond sport. It’s about health, confidence and community spirit.”
At a glance:
- The Tūparikino Hub will have a new indoor stadium and sports fields that could hold national sports tournaments and events such as kapa haka.
- Cost $50m.
- Groundworks started in late 2024
- Opening early 2028.
- An energy-efficient, low-maintenance building.
- The hub will share the site with Taranaki Racing, which has a 33-year lease.
Follow progress on @tuparikinohub on Instagram or find out more at npdc.govt.nz/Tūparikino.
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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand
