News from Sports Park Hawke's Bay

Grandstand approaches halfway mark

Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:00:00 -0600

The 2500-seat grandstand being constructed at the Regional Sports Park is approaching the halfway stage.

"The last of fourteen, 20 tonne concrete columns, has just been placed," says Ashley Hartley, General Manager of lead contractor Gemco Construction.

"The columns are the main feature people notice as they drive along the expressway and although they're huge, their placement is precise. Hastings firm Latteys Civil Engineers, is responsible for the manufacture and placement of the columns and they're working within a 2-4mm tolerance. That's a tiny margin for error when you're dealing with something so big," says Mr Hartley

The grandstand, which has a $5m plus budget, is due to be completed in July 2010. A few months after its completion the Sports Park will host the New Zealand Secondary School Athletic championships (December 2010), followed by the primary school equivalent - the Colgate Games - a month later.

"We're very pleased with progress," says Sports Park Trust Chair and Hastings Mayor Lawrence Yule. "The grandstand is on track budget and timing wise. We're going to have an outstanding athletics facility which means we can host meets like the secondary school champs. This one event will bring about 3000 people and close to $1million into the region."
Mr Yule said he was optimistic that work would commence on netball and football facilities at the Park early in 2010.

"We want to have netball courts available for the 2010 season and we're pulling out all stops to make that happen," he says.

For more information contact

Lawrence Yule
0272 496206

Ashley Hartley
027 443 3817

June 2009 UPDATE

Wed, 23 Sep 2009 16:25:29 -0500

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Thursday 25, June 2009

Grandstand all go - finally

Digger moves in for grandstand – From left, Gemco’s Ashley Hartley, Tukituki MP Craig Foss, site foreman John Lock, HB Regional Council Chair Alan Dick, Project manager Derek Lawson, Sport HB CEO Colin Stone, Napier Mayor Barbara Arnott, Sports Park Trustee Rex Graham and Hastings Mayor Lawrence Yule. Photo courtesy of Hawke’s Bay Today

THE HEADLINE SAYS IT ALL

Construction should have commenced several months ago but we’ve been held up by a High Court judicial review of the consent process which allowed the grandstand construction to begin. We were frustrated by the delay because we felt there was no basis for the review. As it turned out, the judge agreed.

Gemco, a Havelock North construction company, won the tender and is moving into full swing now. Construction time is 12 months so the grandstand should be available in July 2010. This is an important milestone for the Park. The grandstand design, especially its curve around the finish line, has a major wow factor. It also means we stand a good chance of hosting major events such as the December 2010 Secondary School athletic champs and the Colgate Games in January 2011.

We still have one more legal hurdle to navigate though. This time an Environment Court appeal in July. This appeal doesn’t affect the grandstand but could impact other aspects of the Park so we’re taking it seriously. We’ll tell you about this in the July newsletter.

Lawrence Yule
Chair, Regional Sports Park Trust

A bit of history

THERE HAS BEEN AMPLE MEDIA COVERAGE, INCLUDING LETTERS TO THE EDITOR IN RECENT MONTHS AND IT’S APPARENT THERE IS SOME CONFUSION OVER THE PARK’S DEVELOPMENT. BELOW IS A CHRONOLOGY OF EVENTS:

AUGUST 2003: Hastings District Council investigates areas for large format retail and Nelson Park, which is in need of major refurbishment, is identified. Fourteen alternative sites for athletics investigated.

APRIL 2004: Public consultation regarding the future of Nelson Park commences. Concept of Sports Park introduced by submitters.

JULY 2004: Headline in Hawke’s Bay Today reads “Sports Village may be answer to Park dilemma” (3 July). Council writes to sporting codes inviting them to participate in a working party to investigate site options for Nelson Park and a “district sporting centre”. Several subsequent meetings occur.

MARCH 2005: A further six location options investigated. Meanwhile Percival Rd site becomes available.

OCTOBER 2005: Council purchases Percival Rd site having identified it as the most favourable option. Planning continues on Sports Park concept.

NOVEMBER 2006: Public referendum asks for ‘yes’ or ‘no’ to proposal (abbreviated) of selling Nelson Park and re-locating athletics to Percival Rd site as part of a regional sport and recreation park. Public supports proposal – 62% yes, 38% no. Voter turnout is higher than 2007 local body elections.

APRIL 2008: Formal public consultation over sports park development. 67% of submissions support the proposal (some with conditions) 33% against. Construction of weather athletics track (AWAT) commences.

OCTOBER 2008: Nick Willis “cuts ribbon” at new AWAT.

Gymsports – much more than "Gym"

Balance is one of seven fundamental movement skills taught in gymsports

“WHEN YOU TALK ABOUT GYMSPORTS MOST PEOPLE THINK ‘GYM’ IN A TRADITIONAL SENSE. BUT ACTUALLY, THAT’S ONLY ABOUT 15% OF WHAT GYMSPORTS IS ABOUT,” SAYS TAS EVANS, NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT MANAGER OF GYMSPORTS NEW ZEALAND.

GymSports is more accurately described as movement learning and its activities cater for all ages. It is especially important for pre-schoolers.

“75% of brain development through movement learning occurs before the age of 5 and it’s a good time to teach because children learn through play. We teach them the seven fundamental movement skills including locomotion, stopping, jumping, balance, spatial awareness and so on. As an adult this might sound basic but the patterns children learn at this age are excellent grounding for subsequent sport and arts (for example ballet) activities.

Teens and young adults at the Park will use the GymSport facility for sport and arts specific activity. A random list on any day might include exercises for netball, snowboarding, diving, ballet, hip hop and rugby. Activities continue through to retirement and beyond. For example, Tai Chi, a martial art, includes activities designed to prevent fall prevention among over 65s. “We can maintain dignity in old age,” says Tas. “There’s no reason why someone in their 80s can’t easily tie their shoe laces. Physically it is possible, we just need to maintain the physical ability and fitness for it.”

A GymSports facility is part of the Central building at the Sports Park.

Nearly 2000 supporters

MEMBERSHIP OF A SPORTS PARK SUPPORTERS CLUB, LAUNCHED BY SPORTS COMMENTATOR AND FORMER NEW ZEALAND CRICKETER IAN SMITH, IS APPROACHING 2000.

“We’ve got 1800 members now and I expect the numbers to top 2000 before long. I’m stoked by this. People will often jump on the bandwagon of something they’re against, but it’s harder to mobilise them for something they’re for. Well we’re proving that’s not the case with the Sports Park,” says Mr Smith.

Mr Smith said Sports Park supporters had mainly been signed up by community volunteers. “Very few people decline an invitation to join the club, especially when you get the opportunity to explain what the Park will be like.” Mr Smith said while it was great to have so many members, he wanted a lot more. “It’s important people don’t sit back. Having thousands of supporters really helps when approaching sponsors. So those that want to join should go to www.sportspark.co.nz”

Q&A COLUMN

Will the track charges change when the grandstand is built?

At present, while there is no grandstand, there is a nominal charge for groups or schools which use the track. For the 2010/11 season when the grandstand is in full use, the charges will increase. As an example a school using the athletics track is likely to pay between $0.50 and $1.50 per child depending on the time of year (summer or winter) and age of the child (primary or secondary).

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Maori leader joins Sports Park Trust

Sun, 27 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Prominent Maori leader, and Chair of Ngati Kahungunu Inc, Ngahiwi Tomoana, is to join the Hawke's Bay Regional Sports Park Trust.
"Maori represent a quarter of the Hawke's Bay community and it's important they are involved in the Park's development so we're delighted Ngahiwi has agreed to join us," says Sports Park Trust Chair, Lawrence Yule.

Mr Tomoana said he bought into the Trust objectives and wanted to do what he could to hasten the Park's development. "This is a really important project for Hawke's Bay, and for Maori. We have a great deal of sporting talent but we don't tap into that as much as we should," he says.

Mr Tomoana joins existing Trustees Lawrence Yule, Rex Graham, Murray McCaw and Colin Stone.
A 2500 seat grandstand to go alongside the athletics track is under construction at the Sports Park Percival Road site. When complete, in July 2010, it will mark the end of stage one of the Park's development.

Subsequent stages include facilities for netball, football, tennis, a velodrome and a central building.
Powerlines company Unison recently announced a $1 million sponsorship for the proposed Unison Velodrome. Hawke's Bay is in a competitive bid to become the North Island's preferred velodrome venue.

For more information contact

Lawrence Yule
0272 496206

Sports Park to host secondary school champs

Wed, 16 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The Sports Park has been confirmed as the venue for the December 2010 New Zealand Secondary School Athletics Championships.

"We've just received confirmation from the Sports Council of the New Zealand Secondary Schools Association and we're delighted," says Allan Potts, Chair of Hastings Athletics. "The Nationals are the first major athletics event that will use the new grandstand. It's going to be a great. We know the track is fast and I'm confident records will be broken," he says.

Hosting rights for the Secondary Schools Champs follows earlier confirmation that the Primary School equivalent - the Colgate Games - will also be held at the Park, in February 2011.

The two events are expected to bring over 8000 athletes and supporters into Hawke's Bay.

"One of the reasons we were concerned about legal delays in building the grandstand was because it placed these events in jeopardy," says Sports Park Trust Chair Lawrence Yule. "However the grandstand will be built on time and these two events alone will bring about $3 million into the local economy. It just shows what facilities like this can bring to the Bay."

" Imagine what a sporting and economic engine room we're going to have if we get the green light for the Unison Velodrome," he says.

SPARC is undertaking a review of major sporting facilities and Hawke's Bay is one of several regions bidding to be the centre for an indoor velodrome. If the region receives SPARC's endorsement, it stands a strong chance of attracting the necessary funding to make the velodrome a reality.

In August Unison announced a $1 million sponsorship package in support of Hawke's Bay's bid.

For more information contact:

Lawrence Yule
0272 496 206

Allan Potts
021 876 592

Costs awarded to Sports Park

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Legal costs relating to a High Court Judicial Review held earlier this year have been awarded to the Hawke's Bay Regional Sports Park Trust.

The Trust received $7969 from Justice Millar, following the hearing which was brought by the Hawke's Bay Land Protection Society. The Society sought to have the $2million Sports Park athletics track ripped up and the consent for the Grandstand overturned.

"There was no point in even having a High Court judicial review because two months later we were back in the Environment Court, again at the behest of the Land Protection Society," says Sports Park Trust Chair Lawrence Yule.

In his ruling Justice Millar noted that the Land Protection Society had "never answered why it had chosen a judicial review rather than the Environment Court before which it had an appeal pending."

"There was virtually no prospect of the Society being successful - something we pointed out from day one - and although we have been awarded costs it's a fraction of the actual expense involved," says Mr Yule

For more information contact:

Lawrence Yule
0272 496 206

Unison "powers" Velodrome

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The Hawke's Bay Regional Sports Park received a major boost today with the announcement of a $1million sponsorship package for the Park's proposed Velodrome from Unison, Hawke's Bays powerline company.

The proposed Velodrome will provide a world class facility for track cycling in New Zealand, and will also be a focal point for the development of recreational cycling in the Hawke's Bay. It is part of a multi-million dollar development planned for the Hawke's Bay Regional Sports Park.

Sports Park Trust Chair Lawrence Yule said: "I can't overstate the importance of Unison's involvement and support for this project. Unison is an outstanding supporter of the community and this sponsorship is adding real momentum to the Park's development."

Unison Chief Executive Ken Sutherland said the Velodrome was a natural project for the company to partner with because both provide key infrastructure for the economic and social development of Hawke's Bay as well as making a mark outside the region.

Mr Sutherland said the aim of the partnership was not only to help provide a world class facility for track cycling, but be a focal point for the development of recreational cycling, which is a significant and growing sport in Unison's network areas; Hawke's Bay, Taupo and Rotorua.

"We're excited by the Velodrome's potential for both community and high performance use. We've got 100,000 customers so community involvement is always important to us, but this is more than that. It's a world class facility the region can be proud of and we're pleased to play a part in that," said Mr Sutherland.

Mr Yule said the Velodrome's development remained contingent on putting additional funding in place.

"The Velodrome is a $12 to $15million project and it requires a fair degree of government support. In order to get that support we need to convince the government that we are the best destination for cycling and track events because they'll only provide funding for one in the North Island. I expect this process will be complete by the end of the year," says Mr Yule.

Biking is popular In Hawke's Bay. The Ramblers Club is the second largest in the New Zealand and the Hawke's Bay Mountain Bike Club, with over 2000 members, is easily the largest in the country.

Mr Yule said the Velodrome would attract a mix of elite and community use.

"Hawke's Bay has great attributes for biking. Our combination of roading, terrain and weather is the best in New Zealand and including a Velodrome completes the package," said Mr Yule.

"The indoor track plus the outstanding outdoor training opportunities make Hawke's Bay a compelling destination for serious bikers. But we expect the numbers will be driven by community use.

"The country's only other indoor Velodrome, in Invercargill, attracts 10,000 school kids each year and we're expecting at least that volume here. But it's not just school kids. We expect to have people of all ages using the facility," he says.

The Velodrome will also be used as an events and indoor sporting facility. The floor area within the track can accommodate 4 tennis or netball courts.

The original Sports Park plan was going to be developed in three stages with the Velodrome being in stage three. However Mr Yule said it was apparent a North Island Velodrome was going to be developed before long and if Hawke's Bay wanted to attract government funding it needed to state its intentions early.

-ends-

For further information contact:
Lawrence Yule 0272 496 206
Danny Gough, Customer Relations Manager, Unison. 06 873 9361 or 021 739461

Stars launch Supporters' Club for sports park

Tue, 25 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0600

Some of Hawkes Bay's sporting elite will be out in support of the Regional Sports Park at the launch of a Supporters' Club at the new all weather athletics track this evening (Tuesday 25 November).

The Club will be launched by cricketing great and now TV and radio sports commentator, Ian Smith. Mr Smith is a founding supporter for the Club and spokesperson. He will be joined at the launch by Kelt Capital Magpies Danny Lee and Zac Guilford, Black sticks Shea McAleese and Caryn Paewai and double Commonwealth Games track representative Richard Potts. Hawkes Bay United Football will be represented by professional import player Daniel Kirkup and Development Manager Stu Wilson. Olympic cycling gold medallist Sarah Ulmer phoned through her endorsement of the club via an audio link.

"This Park will arguably be New Zealand's premier sporting complex. The athletics track is among the top three in New Zealand, it will have the only indoor velodrome in the North Island and the football, tennis, netball and gymsport facilities are right up there. But these things don't just happen. This is an ambitious project and it's important the community gets in behind it which is why we've launched the supporters" club, says Mr Smith.

The shift of athletics facilities from Nelson Park to the new site in Percival Rd followed a public referendum which endorsed the move. Subsequently a number of other sports have put forward strong cases for also being involved and are being accommodated in stages two and three of the park development.

Mr Smith said he was especially supportive of the social spin offs from the Park. "Some of the health stats coming out of the region are the worst in the country and we're not too flash in crime either. The active sporting programmes that are part of the park go some way to addressing this. As principal youth court judge Andrew Becroft put it recently ‘a kid in sport stays out of court.' But actually it's not just about kids, the park caters for all ages and cultures."

For further information contact Ian Smith who will be at the launch, 6.30-7.30pm, Regional Sports Park, Percival Rd

Sports Park supporters approach 2000

Fri, 22 May 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Membership of a Sports Park supporters club, launched by sports commentator and former New Zealand cricketer Ian Smith, is approaching 2000.

"We've got 1800 members now and I expect the numbers to top 2000 within the next couple of weeks. I'm stoked by this. People will often jump on the bandwagon of something they're against, but it's harder to mobilise them for something they're for. Well we're proving that's not the case with the Sports Park," says Mr Smith.

There has been a spike in membership following legal attempts by a land protection society to have the $2 million athletics track ripped up. "People were outraged by that" says Mr Smith.

The Land Protection Society is reported to have a supporter membership of 40.

Mr Smith said Sports Park supporters had mainly been signed up by community volunteers. "Very few people decline an invitation to join the club, especially when you get the opportunity to explain what the Park will be like. The facilities are fantastic and the annual cost to an average ratepayer - about 60 cents per week - is small," he says.

Mr Smith said while it was great to have so many members, he wanted a lot more. "It's important people don't sit back. We've got another legal challenge to navigate and having thousands of supporters also helps when approaching sponsors. So those that want to join should go to www.sportspark.co.nz"

For further information contact Jock Mackintosh on 021 808303

To become a Sports park supporter, click here.

Society should fold up tent

Mon, 11 May 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The Hawke's Bay Land Protection Society should fold its tent following its comprehensive loss in the Napier High Court last week according to Sports Park Trustee Rex Graham.

The Society initiated a judicial review of the Council processes in granting a consent for the grandstand and athletics track at the Sports Park. The Society said it wanted to ensure "due process" had been followed.
"The Society lost on every count and it was apparent to us early on there was no substantial basis to its argument. This is probably why no one from the Society bothered to turn up when the judge gave his decision," says Mr Graham.
The Society has subsequently claimed there were ‘some positives' out of the result.
"This is very difficult for me to understand, The judge said that even if he had found fault in the way the Council processed the consent, he would not have ordered a reassessment because it was abundantly clear the result would be the same," says Mr Graham.
The judge also questioned why the Society had picked this site and project to fight the soils issue, and commented that it "seemed an odd decision".
Mr Graham said the Sports Park Trust had always been of the view that the claim was simply a tactic to throw a spanner in the works and delay things, and that's what's transpired.

The Sports Park Trust has spent close to $50,000 in legal and expert witness costs associated with the judicial review and in planning for an environment court hearing later in the year. "By the time we're through all this the legal fees will be over $100,000. This is a complete waste of ratepayers' money. It's the equivalent of two netball courts at the new site," says Mr Graham.
"Despite that, I think the ratepayers would be sympathetic if the Society pulled the plug now... they've had their day in court. But I'm not optimistic. We tried to engage them in mediation before this hearing but it was pointless. They just wanted us to rip up the athletics track and there is no way we are doing that" says Mr Graham.
Construction of the 2500 seat grandstand to go alongside the athletics track will commence shortly. An environment court appeal, also initiated by the Land Protection Society, is due to be heard in July. This appeal does not affect grandstand construction.

For more information contact
Rex Graham
021 424972

Grandstand to start in two weeks

Thu, 07 May 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Construction of a 2500 seat grandstand to go alongside the athletics track at the regional Sports Park can commence in two weeks following a decision in the High Court in Napier today.

A Land Protection Society had asked for a judicial review of the consent process for the track and grandstand at the Park. Justice Miller dismissed the claim.
Sports Park Chief Executive Jock Mackintosh said it was now full steam ahead for the grandstand.
The overwhelming public response to the review has been, ‘we've had the vote [the Nelson Park referendum], let's just get on with it'. Well, now we can."
"However it's extremely frustrating that the ratepayers have been put to considerable expense in the process." This money would have been put to much better use building the Park," he says.

For more information contact
Jock Mackintosh
021 808303

Sports Park makes appointments

Tue, 21 Apr 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Two appointments were confirmed at a meeting of the regional Sports Park Trust held in Hastings yesterday.

Jock Mackintosh has been appointed Chief Executive and N-Compass has been appointed as project managers.
Previously Mr Mackintosh has been contracted to the Trust as its communications advisor and N-Compass worked alongside Kelt Capital in its previous role as project manager and fundraiser for the Park.
"Mr Mackintosh's experience is primarily in communications but he also has a good understanding of the construction and fundraising sectors. These are exactly the skills we require at this stage of the Park's development so we're very pleased with his appointment," says Sports Park Trustee Rex Graham.
Mr Mackintosh grew up in Hawke's Bay and shifted back here two years ago, having spent the previous 18 years in Wellington. He was communication's advisor to the Wellington region's economic growth strategy and ran his own consultancy for nine years.
"This has got to be the best job in Hawke's Bay'" says Mr Mackintosh. "I've spoken to hundreds of people in the past month and there's overwhelming support for the Park and its programmes. We've got the opportunity to make it a reality," he says.

N-Compass has been involved in the Sports Park development for two years and its continued involvement will ensure the construction programme remains on track.
N-Compass has a strong track record in sports and community projects including the multi-purpose Trust Stadium in Waitakere and the Claudelands Events centre in Hamilton.

For more information contact
Rex Graham
021 424 972

Changes to Sports Park management and operations

Wed, 25 Mar 2009 00:00:00 -0500

Fundraising and project management of the Regional Sports Park will be managed directly by the Sports Park Trust in future. Up until now Kelt Capital has undertaken these roles.

"Kelt Capital is a major contributor to the Hawke's Bay community. The task of getting the Sports Park to this stage has been considerable and they have done a really tremendous job, meeting all milestones in a very difficult economic environment. However we have differences relating to the future management of the project and as a consequence the Trust will take direct responsibility for funding and project management," says Trustee Rex Graham.

Mr Graham said he was not prepared to go into any detail regarding the management differences because it did nothing to advance the project. "There'll be a handful of detractors who will try and make mileage out of this but our focus is the overwhelming majority who just want to get on with it [development of the park]."

Mr Graham said the Trust would be dealing directly with the existing project team and would have a particular focus on getting the grandstand underway. Grandstand construction was due to commence about now but has been delayed by a judicial review of the consent process for the grandstand and athletics track. The review was initiated by a ‘Land Protection Society' which has said it wants the $2 million track ripped up and shifted.

"The irony of the judicial review is that it has galvanised support for the project. People are outraged that a few individuals think they can bulldoze the athletics track," says Mr Graham

Mr Graham said the Trust would also take direct responsibility for fundraising in the short term at least.

"Funding for the first two stages is well advanced but cannot be confirmed until projects such as the grandstand are underway. We'll be able to give regular funding updates once we have the all clear" he says.

For more information contact:

Rex Graham
021 424 972

Fast track, record entries

Thu, 19 Mar 2009 00:00:00 -0500

The East Coast North Island Athletic champs, which took place at the Regional Sports Park near Hastings last night, attracted record entries of over 500 athletes.

"I have been involved in this event for 23 years and last night was the most entries I can recall," said Chair of Hastings Athletics, Allan Potts. "We had close to a thousand people including spectators, and cars were banked up for several hundred metres outside the main entry," he said.
Meanwhile a Land Protection Society is attempting to have the $2 million track ripped up and placed elsewhere.
"Events like last night, and we have many of them during the season, demonstrate just how successful and popular the new track is. They also demonstrate the stupidity of attempts to have it bulldozed," he says.

For more information contact Allan Potts 0273 701152

Caption: Hastings Boys High athletes Harry Waenga (left) and Ben Smith, both 14, are a blur as they bolt from the start of the boys 100metres at the East Coast North Island athletics champs.

Local company preferred for grandstand

Sun, 08 Mar 2009 00:00:00 -0600

Local construction company, Gemco Construction Ltd, is the preferred tenderer to build the $5.5 million grandstand project, to go alongside the all weather athletics track at the regional Sports Park.

Gemco was one of five contractors that submitted proposals.
"We're really pleased that a local company is the preferred tenderer," said Sports Park Trustee Rex Graham. "Gemco's pricing is competitive and it has a strong track record in local projects including the Wallace development office building in Havelock North, the $2 million Napier Girls High classroom development and the award winning Main Hall project at Woodford House," he says.
At its peak the grandstand construction will employ a workforce of 100, made up of Gemco employees and the 26 subcontractors that will be involved. It is expected there will be an average workforce of approximately 50 over the 12 month construction period.
The contract for the grandstand will not be awarded until the outcome of a judicial review is held. The High Court hearing for the review will be heard under urgency, on May 6 in Napier.

For more information contact
Rex Graham
021 424 872

Park "outstanding deal for ratepayers"

Wed, 25 Feb 2009 00:00:00 -0600

The Regional Sports Park represents an outstanding deal for ratepayers according to Park Trustee and horticulturist Rex Graham.

"The funding cost of a fully developed park, to the average Hastings ratepayer, is around 60 cents per week. This is outstanding value for money when you consider the scale and quality of the facilities," says Mr Graham.

"Whenever you do something on this scale it ignites the ‘Sydney Opera House syndrome'. It creates a lot of debate at the time, but people look back and say what a great decision that was. Wellington's Westpac Stadium is another example. The difference between the Regional Sports Park and the Sydney Opera House, is cost. We're aiming for something that's outstanding value for money and the Opera House was many times over budget, he says."

When complete the 30 hectare site will incorporate an all weather athletics track, a 2500 seat grandstand, 8 football fields, 16 tennis courts, 18 netball courts, an indoor velodrome and central complex accommodating offices and gymsports.

"The Park will be a trailblazer that will make Hawke's Bay a centre of sporting excellence. The track is world class, the velodrome will be the only indoor venue in the North Island and a number of sports have expressed interest in locating their national offices in the central complex. It's important people of the Bay realise the scale and quality of facilities on offer," he says.

Funding for the full $56million development is coming from several sources including central and local government, the corporate sector, individuals and a range of charitable organisations.

"A lot of people ask me where the money's coming from and it's a valid question in the current economic climate, but we're very happy with fundraising progress. The important thing is that ratepayers' are getting a good deal" says Mr Graham.

Mr Graham said the economic climate has created some challenges but also opportunity. "Building the grandstand will be a shot in the arm for the local economy and we are expecting some good news out of the tender process. For example the price of materials, especially steel, is more attractive than it was a year ago," he says.

For more information contact:

Rex Graham
021 424 972

Grandstand tenders extended one week

Fri, 20 Feb 2009 00:00:00 -0600

The tender deadline for the construction of a $4 million, 2500 seat grandstand at the Regional Sports Park has been extended one week and now closes on 25 February 2009.

Regional Sports Park Trust spokesperson Rex Graham said there was considerable interest in the project. "Given the numbers we're confident of a good result and it is apparent those submitting proposals are being extremely thorough. Following several requests, we have decided to extend the close off date by a week. That way we can be sure we'll have all the bases covered when we're assessing the responses," says Mr Graham.

Construction is expected to take 12 months and will commence at the end of March 2009.

The cost of all three stages is $56.8m. The Park will be funded through a mix of sponsorship, charitable and community organisations, the corporate sector and central and local government. As an example, the cost to an average ratepayer in the Hastings District is $26 per year or 50 cents per week.

For more information contact:

Rex Graham
021 424 972

Strike out declined

Wed, 28 Jan 2009 00:00:00 -0600

An application to strike out an appeal on the plan change for the Regional Sports Park has been declined in the Napier Environment Court.

The HB Fruitgrowers Horticultural Land Protection Society lodged the appeal and the Regional Sports Park Trust had applied for it to be struck out.

"Like a lot of ratepayers we're disappointed but not particularly surprised. We respect the judge's decision and understand where he is coming from - the threshold for a strike out is high. Nevertheless our application potentially saved a great deal in legal costs and time so was a necessary process," said Sports Park Trustee and spokesperson Rex Graham.

Mr Graham said he was pleased the judge had set down a tight timeline for the subsequent stages of the appeal and had endorsed mediation. "We have previously tried to engage in mediation but unfortunately our endeavours have been unsuccessful," he says.

Mr Graham said the plan change was designed to streamline the consent process for the Park. Because of the appeal, the Sports Park Trust had earlier lodged, and been granted, a consent under the existing district plan to complete stage one of the Sports Park. An all weather athletics track has been laid and tender documents for construction of the grandstand to go alongside the athletics track were released earlier this week. Interested parties have until 18 February to submit tenders and it is expected construction on the $4 million, 2500 seat grandstand will commence in March. Anticipated construction time is one year.

For more information contact:

Rex Graham
021 424 972

Tenders sought for grandstand

Thu, 22 Jan 2009 00:00:00 -0600

Tender documents have been released for the construction of a $4 million, 2500 seat grandstand at the Regional Sports Park on Percival Road at the Hastings end of the Napier-Hastings expressway.

The Grandstand complements the athletics track which is one of only three class II tracks in New Zealand. The track was opened by Nick Willis in October 2008.

Tenders close on 18 February and it is expected construction will begin in March. Estimated construction time is 12 months.

Regional Sports Park Trustee and spokesperson Rex Graham said the release of the tender documents was an important milestone. "Thousands of athletes are already using the track and it's important we get construction of the grandstand underway. We had planned to have it available for the start of the 2009/10 athletics season but a handful of objectors have embarked on a legal process which has delayed things. Nevertheless we expect the grandstand to be ready early in 2010," he says.

Mr Graham said the project was significant boost for the local economy and the Trust would look favourably at tenders from Hawke's Bay based companies. "There's an advantage in being local but we also need to be mindful of getting a good deal for ratepayers," he says.

Construction of the grandstand and associated car parks will complete stage one of the Regional Sports Park. When all three stages are complete the 30ha site will have 8 football fields, 16 tennis courts, 18 netball courts, an indoor velodrome and central complex to accommodate gymsports, retail and office space.
The cost of all three stages is $56.8m. The Park will be funded through a mix of sponsorship, charitable and community organisations, the corporate sector and central and local government. As an example, the cost to an average ratepayer in the Hastings District is $26 per year or 50 cents per week.

For more information contact:

Rex Graham
021 424 972

Sports Park grandstand gets green light

Thu, 18 Dec 2008 00:00:00 -0600

The way is now clear for the construction of a 2500 seat grandstand alongside the recently completed athletics track at the Regional Sports Park.

"There's an urgent need to get construction under way. Currently there are limited facilities and no seating or shading at the Park," says deputy chair of the Sports Park Trust, Rex Graham.

Mr Graham said construction had been delayed following an Environment Court appeal against the Sports Park by a "Land Protection Society".

"It's extremely frustrating that a small group of individuals with no mandate can delay things and have a damaging effect on the thousands who have been using the Park since the athletics track was laid," he says.

"But this is a day to celebrate. The public referendum strongly supported the move of athletics facilities to the new site and I'm delighted to see the Grandstand is happening."

"The Park is not just a set of smart facilities. Its management will be linked into all sectors of our society, from kindergartens to rest homes, from at-risk groups to high performance sport and so on. There will be programmes in place to cater for all these sectors and in doing so the Park can have a real impact on the ‘well-being' of the people of Hawke's Bay," says Mr Graham.

The Regional Sports Park Trust had applied for a separate resource consent for the construction of the grandstand. All the affected neighbours had given their approval and the application had been considered by an independent commissioner who has granted the consent subject to some conditions. The Environment Court appeal relating to the development of the full sports park is expected to be heard early in 2009.

Allan Potts, chairman of the Hastings Athletics Club said his athletes would be relieved to hear the news.

"It's just not right that a small group of objectors can have such a delaying effect. We've had a thousand kids here some days and they shouldn't have had to stand around in the midday sun," he says.

Tender documents are expected to be released in January and it is anticipated work will start in the first quarter of 2009, with construction estimated to take one year.

For more information contact:

Rex Graham
021 424 972

NOTE: A full resolution copy of the artist's impression of the grandstand is available on request.

Grandstand all go!

Fri, 28 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0600

Work can now get underway on the construction of a new grandstand at the Regional Sports Park following the granting of a resource consent today.

"This is just great" said spokesperson Ian Smith. "The supporters' club had a fantastic launch event at the end last month and to get this approval so soon after that is great news."

"The grandstand has a real wow factor. It puts Hawke's Bay on the athletics map like never before and is going to be a magnet for all sorts of events. It's something the Bay can be proud of."

Mr Smith said he hoped the decision, which had been made by an independent commissioner, would silence the critics.

"The fact is the public referendum supported the move of athletics facilities to the new site but despite that a few individuals have held it up in the courts. The grandstand should have been ready for the start of next athletics season but now won't be, because of the actions of those few. The process is far too PC in my view," he says.

Sports Park Part of Crime Solution

Fri, 14 Nov 2008 00:00:00 -0600

The Regional Sports Park is part of the solution to the East Coast's poor track record in crime, according to Hastings District Council Mayor and Sports Park Trust chairman, Lawrence Yule.

"I was dismayed to see Hawke's Bay was over represented in the recent blitz on drink driving, especially among younger drivers. This, and our ‘performance' in other offending, is exactly the type of thing we're aiming to turn around with the Regional Sports Park," he says.

Mr Yule says Hawke's Bay has the opportunity to lead New Zealand by using excellent sporting facilities to reduce crime and improve social outcomes overall. "The Park's management will be linked into all sectors of our society, from kindergartens to rest homes, from at-risk groups to high performance sport and so on. There will be programmes in place to cater for all these sectors," he says.

Mr Yule's comments are reinforced by Principal Youth Court Judge, Andrew Becroft. "I very seldom have a young person appear before me who is actively engaged in sport or some other community activity. It has been described as ‘a kid in sport stays out of court' and that's certainly been my experience," he says.

Violent crime in the East Coast region is among the worst in New Zealand (10th worst of 12 regions) and has increased 40 percent in the last ten years. [source dept of statistics]

Stage one of the Regional Sports Park incorporates an all-weather athletics track and 2500 seat grandstand. The track has been laid and construction of the grandstand is due to commence early in 2009. When all three stages are complete the 30ha site will have eight football fields, 16 tennis courts, 18 netball courts, an indoor velodrome and central complex to accommodate gymsports, retail and office space.

The cost of all three stages is $56.8m. The Park will be funded through a mix of sponsorship, charitable and community organisations, the corporate sector central and local government.

The cost to an average ratepayer in the Hastings District is $26 per year or 50 cents per week.

For more information contact:

Lawrence Yule
027 249 6206

Green light for netball and football

Tue, 08 Dec 2009 00:00:00 -0600

The development of eighteen netball courts and seven football fields received the green light at the Hastings District Council today.

"I am especially pleased we will have netball courts available from the early part of next season," says Sports Park Trust Chair Lawrence Yule. "This day has been a long time coming and we're now going to pull out all stops to make the courts available as early in the season as we can."

Planning work for the development of netball and football facilities and associated roading within the Park, has been underway for six weeks. It is anticipated earthworks will commence at the end of January.

"Today is an important milestone for the Park. We are able to develop netball and football following significant recent fundraising successes. The cost of developing this next stage is $3.8million and almost two thirds of that amount is coming from non-ratepayers sources," says Mr Yule.

In its presentation to the Council the Sports Park Trust noted it had raised, or was confident or raising, a total of $8.4m towards the Park.

"This is a great achievement in the worst economic climate of our lifetimes and demonstrates the amount of community support there is for the project. Hawke's Bay is fortunate in having a number of outstanding corporate citizens and individuals who are prepared to back local projects. Unison (for the Unison Veldrome) is one such citizen and we'll be announcing another major sponsor, this time for the netball courts, in the weekend," says Mr Yule.

Grass for the football fields will be sown in the Autumn of 2010 with the fields being available for use later in the year. Obtaining additional funding for an artificial football turf remains a high priority.

For more information contact
Lawrence Yule
0272 496206

Earthworks underway for netball

Tue, 23 Feb 2010 00:00:00 -0600

Earthworks have begun for the development of 18 netball courts at the Regional Sports Park.

"This is an exciting day for netball and the Sports Park generally," says Sports Park Trust chair Lawrence Yule. "We didn't think we'd be able to do the courts this year but PAK'nSAVE came on board with a substantial sponsorship towards the end of 2009 and that has enabled us to push things along."

The 18 courts and associated carparks cover an area of 25,000 square metres. Approximately 2000 cubic metres of topsoil will be removed and placed on the area of the Park being developed into seven football fields.

"We're working to tight deadlines to have the courts available as early in the season as we can. If we get a reasonable break with the weather we should have them in June," said Mr Yule.

"This is going to be a major shot in the arm for netball," says Hastings Netball Chair Joan Cameron. "We have had a design briefing and the players and spectators are going to enjoy the experience at the new facility. There is going to be a minimum of six metres between each court compared to one metre where we are now. And there are over 500 hundred carparks," says Mrs Cameron.

The initial earthworks, which began today, are expected to be completed within a week. The Sports Park Trust is negotiations for the substantive part of the "stage two" development works.

Grass for the seven football fields, which are adjacent to the netball courts, will be sown in the Autumn with the fields being available for use later in the year.

For more information contact:
Jock Mackintosh
021 808303

Higgins seals Sports Park sponsorship

Thu, 11 Mar 2010 00:00:00 -0600

Roading and infrastructure company Higgins, has sealed a half million dollar sponsorship deal with the Hawke's Bay Regional Sports Park Trust.

"We're making a substantial contribution because we want to demonstrate our commitment to the region and also recognize that Hawke's Bay has been good to us. It's a chance to put something back," says Bernard Higgins, Managing Director of the Higgins Group.

Mr Higgins said the Sports Park was developing into a wonderful asset for the region. "Much of our work involves building community infrastructure and we inevitably build strong bonds with the communities as a result. I can see that thousands are going to be using the Park every week so it's very satisfying to be part of its development, and it fits well with our company philosophy" he says.

Higgins' sponsorship was announced at a function at the Hawke's Bay Opera House by Sports Park Trust Chair, and Hastings District Mayor, Lawrence Yule.

"This is another major boost for the Park. Half a million is a substantial sum and a very strong endorsement of Higgins' commitment to Hawke's Bay. They (Higgins) did an outstanding job in laying the athletics track so we are pleased they are going to be involved with other stages of the Park's development, says Mr Yule.

Mr Yule said it was intended that Higgins would be forming the roads, carparks, and netball courts as part of the next stage of the Park's development.

As part of its sponsorship Higgins will have naming rights to the main "Higgins Boulevard". The funds will be used to assist with the completion of the grandstand and its associated roading.

The Sports Park has a fully operational class two athletics track - one of only three in the country. In July, a 2500 seat grandstand, which sits alongside the track, will open. The next stage of the Park's development includes eighteen netball courts, seven football fields and associated roading and carparking. The netball courts are due to open in June of this year and the football fields will be ready towards the end of 2010.

For more information contact:

Lawrence Yule
Ph: 0272 236833

Bernard Higgins
Ph: 06 357 1025

Smiths sponsor netball

Fri, 11 Dec 2009 00:00:00 -0600

The Smith family, owners of Hastings PAK'nSAVE, are the naming rights sponsor of the Hastings PAK'nSAVE Netball Centre, located at the Regional Sports Park.

"This is a very, very important day for netballers in the region and the Sports Park generally," says Sports Park Trust Chair, Lawrence Yule. "The fact is we wouldn't have the new courts without the Smith family investment in the sport, and I can't praise them enough," he said.

Family spokesman David Smith, on behalf of his wife Pam and sons Aaron and Brendon, said they had been long time supporters of netball and could see what a boost the new courts would be for the sport.

"We get a lot of support from the community and we're really pleased to lend a hand in something that will benefit so many people. I'm looking forward to coming down here next season and seeing hundreds of players in action," he said.

Mr Smith said the family had made a decision to keep the amount of the sponsorship confidential. "We're pleased we can help make this thing happen, and that's the important thing, not the amount" says Mr Smith.
Planning for the new courts has been underway for six weeks and earthworks are due to commence in January. There will be 18 new courts, floodlighting, a netball "control centre/building" and ample car parking. It is anticipated the new courts will be available in the early part of the 2010 season.

Hastings Netball President Joan Cameron said it will be fantastic to see the courts become a reality. "It's been a long time coming but I'm sure it will be worth the wait. We're going to have 18 courts at the new facility, great parking and much better space between the courts, so it's a better spectator experience. We've only got 12 courts at the current venue (Sylvan Rd), inadequate parking and no space between the courts. Sylvan Rd had been due for an upgrade for several years, so the new facility is going to be of real value to players," she says.

The sponsorship announcement took place on location, at the Regional Sports Park today. Members of the Pulse eastern region netball franchise put on a display and a number of teams competed in an informal tournament. Families picnicked on a freshly mown section of the Park where the courts are going to be located and "Santa" and helpers distributed goody bags to the children.

Work on the netball courts marks the commencement of the second stage of the Sports Park. They will be developed in tandem with seven new soccer fields.

Note. A cherry picker, with flat platform, will be on site to assist with photography

For more information contact
Lawrence Yule
0272 496206
David Smith
029 448 6066

Netball opening deferred

Thu, 22 Apr 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The opening of the Hastings PAK'nSAVE Netball Centre at the Regional Sports Park, originally planned for June of this year, is to be deferred. The 18 courts are now expected to be operational later in 2010 or early 2011

"We were working to tight deadlines to achieve the June date but the message we are getting from Hastings Netball is that they want more time to make sure we get it right. Alongside that, some of the funding is slower coming through than originally planned," says Sports Park Trust Chair Lawrence Yule

"By taking our foot off the accelerator we're relieving the pressure in both areas," he says.

Hastings Netball Chair Joan Cameron said her board was happy with the decision. "To be honest it's a bit of a relief. The courts are going to be great and we want to make sure the building that goes alongside them does the job, so a bit more time to plan that is going to help," she says.

"We were also a bit nervous about shifting in the middle of the season (June). Having more time before the start of the 2011 season means we can iron out any teething problems," she says.

Mr Yule said the Sports Park Trust was not seeking any additional funding from the Council to complete the Hastings PAK'nSAVE Netball Centre.

"Most of the funding - about two thirds - is actually being raised by the Sports Park Trust, and we're not proposing to seek any increase in the Council's one third contribution. We'll simply manage the development of the next stage according to fund inflows," he says.

For more information contact Lawrence Yule on 0272 496206

Hawke’s Bay strong contender for velodrome

Fri, 11 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

Hawke’s Bay Regional Sports Trust chair Lawrence Yule says the region will be a strong contender for a velodrome following the government’s announcement today.

Mr Yule said Hawke’s Bay’s bid ticks all the boxes to be the home of a velodrome and “stands out” as the only suitable option.

He added the region was a clear favourite for competitive and recreational cyclists and the Unison Velodrome will complete the other sports to be catered for at the Regional Sports Park.

“We recently had hundreds of cyclists here from throughout New Zealand for nationals and the clear message we got was that Hawke’s Bay is the capital of cycling in the country.

“Hawke’s Bay has the best climate, the best cycling terrain and cycling routes and two of the strongest cycling clubs in New Zealand.

He added that elite track cyclist Ali Shanks recently spent a week training in Hawke’s Bay as part of her build up to competing overseas.

Hawke’s Bay’s fundraising campaign is also ahead of the other regions bidding with over $6 million committed including $1m from Unison as naming right sponsor.

The Unison Velodrome will cost up to $15m and will cater for riders from elite levels to recreational riders. It will be built to international specifications and the inner area will be used for netball, tennis and futsal.

“When Ali was here she said New Zealand’s only current velodrome in Southland is used heavily by the entire community. It’s not just for elite riders but riders of all ages and ability.

It is estimated that the velodrome would generate $4.5 million in its first five years of operation.

Mr Yule said the Regional Sports Park Trust would announce its community campaign shortly with the aim of proving to Government decision makers that Hawke’s Bay is the only option for a velodrome.

“We’ll be calling on everyone in Hawke’s Bay to back the campaign for the Unison Velodrome. We’ll also be putting together a compelling business case to why the region is the most suitable velodrome site.

Olympic track champion Sarah Ulmer is also urging the Hawke’s Bay community to get behind the velodrome bid.

Sarah says having a velodrome in the North Island will further enhance New Zealand’s growing reputation and success on the world stage of track racing.

“What a cracker opportunity for you! Hope you guys get really behind the campaign and give it loads of support.

“Imagine what it will do for the community and you’ll continue to churn out budding Westley Gough’s before you know it,” she said.

Ramblers Cycling Club spokesperson Ivan Aplin says Hawke’s Bay has the best case to the North Island’s cycling centre.

The Ramblers Club is one the strongest club in New Zealand, Central Hawke’s Bay also has a strong club and then we have a strong mountain biking club and multisport club.

“I’ve been to the Southland Velodrome and its popular and heavily used by everyone.

For more information please contact Lawrence Yule 027 249 6206

Higgins sponsorship "significant benefit to community" - Audit NZ

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The Regional Sports Park Trust has welcomed the findings of an Audit New Zealand review of the Higgins sponsorship of the Sports Park.

Hastings District Council initiated the review following accusations of inappropriate arrangements in relation to procurement and sponsorship at the Sports Park. There were also suggestions that ratepayers would be worse off because the work Higgins is undertaking at the Park had not been competitively tendered. Higgins is undertaking the works associated with 18 netball courts, eight football fields and roading and services at the Sports Park.

"We approached Higgins for sponsorship and we agreed they would have the opportunity to undertake the next stage of works, subject to their pricing being competitive." says Sports Park Trust Chair Lawrence Yule.

"Despite some speculation over the arrangements, we were always confident that we were getting a great deal for the community", says Mr Yule. "The Audit New Zealand review has confirmed this."

Higgins is providing a $500,000 sponsorship to the Sports Park.

Among the conclusions of the Audit New Zealand report were:
"...the sponsorship offer by Higgins is of significant benefit to the community"
"....the overall outcome has been very positive and has been in the interests of the community."
"Nothing came to our attention to suggest that the arrangements made with Higgins were inappropriate in any respect"

Mr Yule said the Audit NZ findings were not a surprise.

Both the Trust and the Council ensured that there were robust processes in place for ensuring competitive pricing. This involved verification by quantity surveyors Rawlinsons, as well as other price reviews on various project components by Council engineers, consultants and appropriate independent advisers. Rawlinsons noted that Higgins pricing was "competitive and reflective of market conditions".

Sports Park Trust Chair Lawrence Yule said the Higgins deal represented an outstanding result for the community.

"The Higgins people have done exactly what they said they would. The region has received the double whammy benefit of an excellent price for the stage two works and a $500,000 sponsorship," he says.

For more information contact:
Lawrence Yule
Ph: 0272 496206

$500k boost for Park

Fri, 09 Jul 2010 00:00:00 -0500

The Regional Sports Park received a major financial injection following the announcement of a $500,000 grant from the Lotteries Community Facilities Fund today.

The Fund is available for facilities that support participation in community activities. The grant is to be spent on fitting out the grandstand, its 2500 seats and internal finishing of administrative offices and changing rooms.

Park fundraiser Jenni Giblin said the success of the Park's application was a result of the multi-purpose use of the grandstand.

"The grandstand is going to be used by a range of sports both in an active and administrative sense. Several sports will have their administrative base in the grandstand and the grassed area within the athletics track is suitable for rugby and football. There will also be a range of programmes, for all ages, delivered from within the grandstand," she says.

Sports Park Trust Chair Lawrence Yule said the past few weeks had been among the most successful for the Park.

"Funding ebbs and flows, but it's certainly flowed since May. We have had $900,000 confirmed in the last month. We said back in December we expected to raise $3.9m for athletics, netball and football development. We're well on the way to achieving that, with a further $4.5m available if the region is successful in its bid for a velodrome," he says.

The grandstand is due to open in September. Its first major assignment is the New Zealand Secondary Championships in December. The following month it will also host the North Island Primary School champs - the Colgate Games.

For more information contact: Lawrence Yule Ph: 0272 496206