The future of New Zealand relies on inspiring young people and growing communities that reflect the far-reaching benefits of being active and enjoying opportunities to ‘have a go.’

In Canterbury, an entire generation has suffered the loss of community sporting facilities, growing up without the recreational venues that are considered the norm in the rest of New Zealand.

It’s a community that has shown patience, resilience and a willingness to compromise.

The Metro Sports Facility of Canterbury’s dreams is actually a version drastically scaled down from original thinking. Mainland Netball has been stoic as the budgeted court space was reduced from fifteen to twelve to 9, as we see in the present plans.

Sports are not begging for more. They are simply grateful for what will be given – the only question being…when will it arrive?

After all, every year of waiting, we watch sports struggle to stay afloat. Coaches are discouraged, athletes are demoralised and families are stretched to their limits with barriers of transport, time and cost, travelling great distances to access training and competition.

The purpose of the Metro Sports Facility is about activating thousands of people on a regular basis and reducing barriers to participation.

It is the view of the NZ Recreation Association that the current design and location of the Metro Sports Facility is an excellent balance of value for money and the enhancement of community-level recreation opportunities in Christchurch. The mix of elements will not only serve to replace what was lost between QEII and Centennial Pools’ destruction, but also generate significant community benefits.

We urge Christchurch City Council and the Minister for Greater Christchurch Regeneration to affirm the long-held vision for the Metro Sports Facility in its current design and location. Another generation awaits to play, swim and grow.

Andrew Leslie, CEO, NZ Recreation Association

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