Framing is starting to go up for the Tūparikino Active Hub, located next to TSB Stadium in New Plymouth. This phase of construction follows the removal of the ageing racecourse public stand last year and extensive civil works to prepare the site.
The project is a partnership between the New Plymouth District Council, Sport Taranaki, and local hapū Ngāti Tūparikino and Ngāti Te Whiti. It will feature a massive six-court indoor stadium designed to host sports such as basketball, netball, futsal, volleyball, and pickleball.
Back in 2019, a Needs Assessment Report prepared by NPDC and Sport Taranaki found many sport and recreation codes are unable to access appropriate facilities in the district. The quality of facilities is generally low and no longer fit for purpose.
Initial funding challenges led to a scaled-back $50 million council investment approved by the previous council in the 2024-2034 Long Term Plan, with external partners and grants funding the balance to reduce the burden on ratepayers.
Situated near Pukekura Park, the finished project will sit within easy walking distance of about 4,500 students at neighbouring schools. Taranaki Racing is sharing the area under a 33-year lease, a move designed to let racing and community sports operate side by side.
The indoor stadium is expected to open to the public by mid-2028, and aims to host national sports tournaments along with major lifestyle events like kapa haka.
