Auckland Council has announced funding of $4m toward the construction of the Upper Waitemata Marine Centre being built at Catalina Bay, Hobsonville Point Onekiritea.
The grant is one of 18 Council recently approved as part of its Sport Recreation Facility Strategy.
Hobsonville Sport Recreation Centre Trust Chairman Mike Stanley is thrilled with the decision.
“This is a major step forward toward making the facility a reality. The Trust has been working hard for many years to establish a multi-functional, community focused marine centre for the rapidly growing north west. Work has already commenced on the Marine Centre foundations and platform, along with the jetty and launching pontoon. With the latest funding earmarked toward the construction of the Marine Centre building.
We have been very fortunate to have the wonderful support of Kainga Ora, Te Kawerau a Maki, the Hobsonville Point Residents Society, Upper Harbour Local Board, Lotteries and Foundation Clubs”.
The Marine Centre will facilitate participation in a wide range of water sports and recreation.
“Rowing, sailing and sea cadets have been based at Hobsonville for many years and it is anticipated waka ama, canoeing, recreational kayaking, stand up paddle board and others will utilise the facilities”.
It is also anticipated a wide range of community groups will use it as a base, along with members of the community, while being a cultural and marine education centre.
” We want it to be a vibrant centre for the community and a legacy for future generations.”
The Trust is in the process of raising the balance of funds, with construction on the community clubhouse and equipment storage planned to start in 2024.
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