Māruawai College Unveils First Step in Major Facility Upgrade

The construction of a new covered court area at Māruawai College is underway, marking a significant upgrade for the school’s sports facilities. With half of the roof now installed, the project is expected to be completed by Christmas 2023, ahead of a grand opening scheduled for February 2024. Once finished, students will benefit from four full-sized courts featuring artificial turf, designed for basketball, netball, tennis, and recreational activities during school hours.

This project, financed through the Ministry of Education’s five-year property allocation, is the first of many capital improvements planned for the college as it prepares to enhance its facilities for future generations. The courts are being constructed by Shade Systems, a New Zealand-based company, which has committed to a rapid rollout, aiming for completion within a year from the initial design phase.

Durability and Community Impact

Regan Kemp, the major project consultant and designer, emphasized the structure’s durability, highlighting a 25-year warranty for the canopy and a designed lifespan of 50 years for the base structure. The design takes into account local environmental conditions, offering protection from high UV levels and heavy rainfall. “We concentrated on it being a proper shelter for all weather use,” Kemp explained. “There’s a lot higher rainfall and more challenging environmental conditions here in New Zealand.”

Once completed, the covered courts will become the second largest canopy cover of its kind in New Zealand. Melanie Hamilton, principal of Māruawai College, expressed enthusiasm about the new facility and its potential community benefits. Discussions are underway regarding how the courts can be made accessible for public use outside school hours. “We want it to be for the community,” Hamilton stated, adding that the school is still working out the logistical details.

Looking Ahead

The construction of the covered courts represents an important milestone in Māruawai College’s broader plan for facility upgrades. Hamilton noted that this initiative is just the first step in a series of enhancements aimed at reshaping the school’s facilities. “It’s great to see the school getting the ball rolling for its new look, which includes further building improvements and new playing fields,” she said.

As the school prepares for the grand opening in the second week of February 2024, the anticipation around the project highlights the commitment to providing high-quality sports facilities for students and the wider community. The upgrades signify a new era for Māruawai College, reinforcing its dedication to fostering a vibrant and dynamic educational environment.