26 August 2026
Councillors will receive an update on the Indoor Multipurpose Centre project at this week’s meeting, as work continues to identify the best long-term solution for indoor sports and recreation in Tairāwhiti.
In April 2025, Council endorsed a business case for a regional three-court Indoor Multipurpose Centre and identified a site adjacent to Kiwa Pools as the preferred location.
Since then, new partnership opportunities have emerged that could potentially improve how the facility is funded, delivered and operated.
Following an approach from The Y Gisborne to work collaboratively on the project, Council, The Y Gisborne and Trust Tairāwhiti agreed to investigate whether the Childers Road /Victoria Domain precinct could offer strategic advantages, including potential ownership, funding and operating arrangements, alongside the previously preferred Kiwa Pools site.
Director Liveable Communities Michèle Frey says the project remains focused on delivering a facility that’s affordable to build, sustainable to operate and able to meet the region’s future needs.
“The need for additional indoor court space in Tairāwhiti hasn’t changed. What we’re doing now is making sure we’ve thoroughly considered all viable options before any final decisions are made.”
The Indoor Multipurpose Centre remains a priority project aimed at addressing the shortage of indoor court facilities in Tairāwhiti and providing a venue capable of supporting sport, recreation, cultural and community activities.
Over recent months, preliminary concept designs have been developed with several potential Childers Road and Victoria Domain locations. Following assessment, two Childers Road options have been identified for further investigation.
The next phase of work will look more closely at site impacts, traffic assessments, stakeholder views, economic analysis, ownership/operating models, funding options and a detailed comparison between the Childers Road and the previously endorsed Kiwa Pools site.
“No decision has been made on a preferred site, ownership structure, operating model or future Council funding contribution,” says Ms Frey.
“The findings will be presented to Council through an updated business case and investment proposal later this year.”
People interested in the project can find more information, follow progress and sign up to receive updates online