New court opened at Haruatai Park

After months of negotiation and construction, Otaki’s new basketball court is has been opened.

Wellington Saints shooting guard Jordan Mills was on hand for Tuesday morning’s opening, which saw about 25 budding players brave the cold and rain for a free throw competition and barbecue.

Mills said outdoor facilities are crucial for getting young players involved.

‘‘It’s cool doing something for the community with the outdoor court.

‘‘It’s super-important. Basketball is a growing sport, jumping on the back of Steven Adams ... it’s not always possible to get access to an indoor court, so it’s good to have an outdoor one.’’

The facility was made available for use earlier this month, and Kapiti Coast District Council recreation services manager Brent Harvey said the facility has been wellpatronised so far.

The development was part of an attempt to make Haruatai Park a social hub. The Haruatai Park playground upgrade is continuing, while construction of a bike pump track had been proposed, he said. The upgrade of Otaki Pool also begins later this year.

Otaki Community Board chair James Cootes was happy with the court, and said he would to see Haruatai Park become as much of a destination as Levin Adventure Park.

The court, in the grass area on the park’s lower level, has one hoop and a concrete surface, and features a ramp for wheelchair access.

Court construction began last month, following a community consultation process that began in November.

A group of teenagers painted their own basketball court by the Otaki Surf Lifesaving Club before Christmas. Council relocated a hoop to the court, but decided against upgrading it further.

Council budgeted $20,000 in the 2015-16 financial year for the court.