Funding welcomed for Event Centre project

Published on 27 October 2023

The vision of a new events and sports centre for Oamaru moved a step closer to reality this week, as the Network Waitaki Event Centre Project Board and Waitaki District Council welcomed the announcement by the Otago Community Trust that following a successful application, they would contribute $2 million towards the planned Event Centre.

The centre, ticketed at $32 million dollars, is now just $4 million short of its funding target, and Waitaki District Council is in negotiations for the build with a preferred contractor. The cost is made up of $26 million for the main build and $6 million for ancillary works.

The Trust is still expecting decisions on other funding applications in due course; including those from the Lotteries Community Facility Fund, AAW Jones and the Alexander McMillan Fund. The Otago Community Trust have also advised that they welcome further applications next year.

A revised concept is expected from the prospective contractor in the coming weeks, and the Project Board hope to be able to share this with the Advisory Board in November.

Adair Craik of the The Waitaki Event Centre Trust says, “The Waitaki Event Centre Trust is absolutely delighted to receive such a significant grant of $2 million from the Otago Community Trust. We are committed to delivering a quality event centre that our community will be proud of.

Our six court, Network Waitaki Event Centre, will be more than just a sports centre, it will provide meeting rooms, offices, performance spaces, conference options, activities for all ages and the flexibility to let our imagination create exciting opportunities for all. Planning is in its final stages and we will push forward and turn our aspiration into reality.

Thank you to the Otago Community Trust for their phenomenal support. To the Waitaki community, thank you to those people and businesses who have already provided substantial sponsorship and donations so far. These funds provided the vital proof for the Otago Community Trust that our community supports this project.

We just need to raise a bit more – so come on Waitaki - Lets make it happen!!”

Those looking to contribute or fundraise can contact waitakieventcentretrust@gmail.com or phone 027 838 3003 for more information.

ENDS