Combined aquatic centre and library opens to cater for growing population in south west Christchurch

Following an opening ceremony on Friday, the Matatiki Hornby Centre - which offers a combined aquatic facility, library and service centre - has been opened.

Catering for the growing population in Christchurch’s south west, a community day was held on Saturday, allowing people to explore the 4000 metre² Centre, and enjoy a range of activities, food trucks and entertainment.

The $46.9 million Centre also features the Auahatanga Creative Space, which includes resources such as a laser cutter, 3-D printer, audio/visual recording equipment, and sewing machines.

Introducing the Centre, Christchurch City Council Head of Recreation, Sports and Events, Nigel Cox stated “the centre is going to be absolutely amazing for the community in Hornby and surrounding areas.

“With multiple amenities in one location, Matatiki will be a one-stop shop. Drop the kids off at their swimming lessons, register the dog, pick up a new library book, and grab yourself a snack at the café all in one visit.”

The indoor pool hall contains a lane pool, learn-to-swim pool, family spa pool, toddlers’ wet play area and a hydrotherapy pool.

The hydrotherapy pool was a late addition to the project, with the Greater Hornby Residents’ Association and the Rotary Club of Hornby leading a project to raise $1.4 million towards the pool.

Christchurch City Council approved an additional $2.5 million towards the hydrotherapy pool.

Acknowledging this input, Cox noted “we’ve worked closely with the community groups every step of the way. They’ve rallied together to raise over $1.1 million to date, which is a stellar effort.”

The new Hornby Library, which has shifted from its previous home on Goulding Ave, includes a creative activities space, 12 public computers, printing and photocopying facilities, as well as free Wi-Fi internet access.

Acting head of Christchurch Libraries and Information, Erica Rankin says the creative resources on offer open up possibilities for people to try something new, adding “Matatiki has an audio/video space equipped with professional-grade video, sound and image editing software, and hardware including microphones, sound mixing boards and computers.

“People will also be able to sign up for classes to learn their way around the software, so they are qualified to work directly with the technology available.”

Construction on the facility started in November 2021. It was originally due to open last year, but was delayed due to supply-chain issues, pandemic and piling issues.

Matatiki means ‘spring of life’. The name was gifted to the Christchurch City Council by Ngāi Tūāhuriri and Matapopore to express the importance of water as a source of life and wellbeing.

Images: The pool hall at the Matatiki Hornby Centre. Credit: Christchurch Recreation and Sport Centres.