First soil turned at multisport complex site in Waipapa

Upturned soil will become a regular sight at the Waipapa multisport complex over the coming months with construction work starting this week - and that's sure to get Far North sports fans cheering.

Construction of Te Puāwaitanga Bay of Island Sportshub finally kicked off after weeks of wet weather delays. For the next 10 months the sight of contract staff and earthmoving equipment will be a permanent fixture at the 46.77-hectare site on State Highway 10 at Waipapa.

Phase 1 work includes the installation of stormwater infrastructure, erosion and sediment control works, as well as electrical and lighting duct installation. Construction of the car parking area and site driveway up to a base level is then due to follow. When completed, over 300 car parks will be available, as well as spaces for trailers, vans and touring coaches.

Following this initial stage of development, construction of four sports fields will follow with the aim of completing them in time for the 2023/2024 playing season. If budget allows, a changing room block will also be built. The facility is planned to become a ‘hub’ for a range of sports including football, rugby league, cricket, competitive gymnastics, hockey, softball and croquet.

The council has set aside $8.758 million for the $10.758 million project, with the additional $2 million being provided by the government’s COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund.

The goal of the project is to eventually build up to seven sports fields. However, the funding has not yet been allocated for this stage of the project. The council has worked with a project working group on the hub's development since October 2020. The working group includes iwi, sporting code representatives, councillors, and council staff.

To see the concept plans and find out about the project background, visit our website.

Video of progress getting underway: