Construction begins on long-awaited Auckland community facility

After years of planning, construction on the new $30.9 million ?t?huhu Recreation Precinct, which will include a new library and a state-of-the-art aquatic centre, is underway.

With a vision for the ?t?huhu Recreation Precinct to create a hub of community activity and focal point for ?t?huhu, design of the precinct takes inspiration from ?t?huhu, its diverse communities and the surrounding landscape.

Other features include a new children's playground, large open space for events, community teaching garden, picnic and barbecue area and outdoor basketball court.

The facility will have a common entrance, incorporating a Citizen's Advice Bureau and a café.

A number of people and groups have contributed to the precinct's planning and development, including neighbours, ?t?huhu residents, business groups and schools.

The project is a priority for the M?ngere-?t?huhu Local Board and is due for completion in mid-2015. The existing recreation centre on the site will form part of the new, expanded precinct and will remain open during construction.