Football and cricket to share spaces at new Pa¯pa¯moa pavilion
Football and cricket in Pa¯pa¯moa are getting a new shared home.
Tauranga City Council representatives and community sports clubs gathered last week to witness and celebrate the sod-turning for the new Alice Johnson Oval Pavilion at Gordon Spratt Reserve, Pa¯pa¯moa.
With a footprint of 265sq m, the construction of the new pavilion marks another exciting milestone for sport and community infrastructure in Pa¯pa¯moa. Described as “epic for community sport in Pa¯pa¯moa” by Mark Divehall of Pa¯pa¯moa Cricket Club, the multi-use facility will become home for the cricket club, alongside shared use with Pa¯pa¯moa Football Club.
“The Alice Johnson Oval Pavilion is a home where our cricketing community can thrive, foster skill development, and where we can come together and just enjoy our game.”
The project is a testament to the collaborative efforts between Tauranga City Council and local sports clubs, to the diverse needs of the community. Commissioner Bill Wasley commended the dedication and commitment of volunteers from Pa¯pa¯moa Cricket Club and Pa¯pa¯moa Football Club, whose collective vision alongside the council has helped drive the project forward.
“This project underscores the strong sense of community spirit working collaboratively with council to ensure a fit-for-purpose facility that meets the needs of the community, now and into the future.
“Beyond its function as a sports facility, the Alice Johnson Oval Pavilion serves to foster social connections, promoting healthy lifestyles, and providing a welcoming space for all members of the community.”
The pavilion will be a contemporary, multi-sport facility boasting accessible amenities including public
toilets, changing rooms, storage, umpire facilities, and a spacious reception area with a fully equipped kitchen. These upgrades cater to the
diverse needs of local sports clubs and community members alike.
“The development of the Alice Johnson Oval Pavilion marks an exciting phase of growth at Gordon Spratt Reserve, following the recent installation of the bustling and popular skatepark,” Wasley said.