Kapiti Coast Council to contribute to refurbishment of Otaki College gymnasium

In exchange for community use of the facility for sporting events and training, the Kapiti Coast District Council is to contribute $345,000 over six years to the refurbishment of the Åtaki College gymnasium.

The funding, which was agreed through Council’s Long Term Plan 2018-38, will allow local sports teams and clubs to access the gym outside of school hours for the duration of the refurbishment.

Explaining the partnership, James Jefferson, the Council's Group Manager Place and Space, advised "we are delighted to be able to provide this support to Åtaki College which will help create a better facility for current and future students, as well as for our wider community to enjoy and benefit from."

The funding will go towards upgrades to the two gym rooms, offices, changing rooms and toilets and follows a successful application to the New Zealand Community Trust for the construction of a new climbing wall at the gymnasium. Work is being undertaken in stages to allow the gym to remain in use.

Åtaki College Principal, Andy Fraser added "we know that getting active has really positive impacts on mental, physical and social well-being, and I’m delighted that we can progress our plans to create a high quality facility for our students and wider community that encourages participation and provides sporting opportunities.

"I want to acknowledge the support of the Åtaki Community Board and members of our school community for their commitment to getting the project underway."

Åtaki Community Board Chair, Chris Papps went on to say "Åtaki College is a vital part of our community and the gym facility is available for use not only by students but many of our community groups. It made good sense to support the refurbishment and to ensure the facility and College can continue to make a valuable contribution."

During term time, the gym is available to the public from 3.30pm to 10pm Monday to Friday and 7am to 10pm Saturday, Sunday and during school holidays.