$15 Million Boost to Revamp Auckland’s Tennis Centre Roof

A significant financial commitment has been made to enhance Auckland’s tennis facilities. The Auckland Council has announced a grant from its Sport and Recreation Facilities Investment Fund, which will enable Tennis Auckland to proceed with plans to demolish the Robinson Grandstand. This demolition marks a pivotal step toward the long-anticipated construction of a roof over the Centre Court at the Stanley Street venue.

The New Zealand government will contribute an additional $5 million to the Centre Court roof project, as confirmed by Minister for Tourism and Hospitality Louise Upston. This funding is part of a broader initiative to co-fund improvements at the venue, which hosts the ASB Classic and various concerts.

Upston stated, “If we want to continue to attract world-class events to New Zealand, we need to have world-class facilities to go along with them.” She emphasized the importance of the roof in providing stability for organisers, players, and fans, and expressed her enthusiasm for the government’s investment in the project.

Government Commitment to Infrastructure

The roof project is the first to be announced under the government’s $70 million Major Events and Tourism Package. This initiative aims to boost tourism and enhance the events sector, generating economic growth across New Zealand. Upston remarked on the significance of upgrading existing sports and tourism infrastructure, noting that improvements at the tennis arena will positively impact local communities and businesses.

“This is a first announcement, but local communities and businesses up and down the country will benefit significantly as we make further decisions, particularly around our hugely popular cycle trails,” she added.

Timeline and Future Prospects

Construction of the Centre Court roof is expected to be completed by 2027. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon expressed a desire to see the project operational by January of that year, stating, “It’s important to keep stepping up the standard.”

The new roof is anticipated to enhance the overall experience for visitors and participants alike, further solidifying Auckland’s reputation as a premier destination for international sporting events. With continued investments and developments, the city’s sporting facilities will not only meet but exceed global standards, ensuring New Zealand remains a competitive player on the world stage.