19 Sep 2024

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The revamp of Lyttelton’s Naval Point – Te Nukutai o Tapoa moves into a new phase next week as work begins on changing facilities at the Recreation Grounds.

The new $1.2 million building will sit alongside the redeveloped sports fields, and take around eight months to complete, says Christchurch City Council Head of Parks Rupert Bool.

“Netball, football, futsal, basketball and rugby teams all use the Recreation Grounds, as well as visitors to the marina. New bathrooms and changing facilities will be a great asset for the whole community,” says Mr Bool.

Contracting firm Watts and Hughes has been engaged to do the works, which start on Monday 23 September.

The change pavilion project follows the addition of a “multi-sport zone” to the grounds, and redevelopment of the two existing grass sports fields over the last year.

“The multi-sport zone is almost finished. The last step is adding a design to the hard courts. An artist from Te Hapū o Ngāti Wheke Rāpaki is developing the design, which will tie in with the nearby artwork along the water’s edge,” says Mr Bool.

The artwork will be added to the netball and basketball/futsal courts after the change pavilion has been built to avoid the risk of damage during construction.

“The eastern sports field has been a hit this past season, but more time is needed to establish the turf on the western field. We expect to have both fields – and the change pavilion – open ahead of the 2025 winter sports season,” says Mr Bool.

The Council will also add landscaping and seating around the change pavilion.

“A pathway connecting the ground to the marina, and a play area near the Scout den are also in the works as part of the wider Naval Point Development Project,” says Mr Bool.

Other recently completed works include adding a new wash station for boats and other vessels near the water.

“Currently two vessels at a time can use the wash station. We plan to increase the capacity to four in future. The water runoff is collected and treated before entering the stormwater system,” says Mr Bool.

Future stages of work include improving marine access and safety, adding storage facilities, and haulout facilities.

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