Major Upgrade Underway at Māruawai College with New Canopy Courts

Construction is progressing at Māruawai College, where half of the roof for the new covered court area has been installed. The project is on track for completion by Christmas 2023, ahead of the grand opening scheduled for February 2024. Once finished, the college will feature four full-sized courts equipped with artificial turf, suitable for basketball, netball, tennis, and recreational use during school hours.

This initiative is part of a broader upgrade plan funded through the Ministry of Education’s five-year property allocation. The new facility, constructed by Shade Systems, a New Zealand-based company, is projected to be completed within a year from the initial design phase.

Durable Design for All-Weather Use

According to Regan Kemp, the major project consultant and designer, the canopy is built to withstand New Zealand’s challenging environmental conditions. It features a 25-year warranty for the canopy and a designed lifespan of 50 years for the base structure. The design focuses on providing shelter from the elements, filtering light while ensuring durability against higher rainfall and increased UV exposure.

“We concentrated on it being a proper shelter for all weather use,” Kemp stated. “There’s a lot higher rainfall and more challenging environmental conditions, which is why we were trusted by Māruawai and the project management team.”

When completed, the facility will stand as the second largest canopy of its type in New Zealand.

Community Engagement and Future Plans

Principal Melanie Hamilton expressed enthusiasm about the project, highlighting its potential to benefit not only students but also the surrounding community. “We are discussing how to open it up for community use,” she noted. “We want it to be accessible for people outside of school hours.”

Hamilton views the construction of the canopy as a significant milestone in the school’s transformation. “This is the first step in a series of upgrades that will reshape our school facilities for the future,” she stated.

The grand opening is anticipated to take place in the second week of February 2024, marking the beginning of a new era for Māruawai College and its facilities. The school’s plans also include further building improvements and new playing fields, reinforcing its commitment to enhancing educational and recreational opportunities for students and the local community.