Construction for the new Te Whare Whakapakari / Matamata Indoor Sports and Recreation Hub (the Hub) is on track to begin this year. A project manager has been appointed and with the project currently seeking registrations of interest, the contract for construction is expected to be in place by this August.

With the increasing construction costs across the country and current climate, some sport and recreation projects are at risk of not being funded or progressing, however the partnership approach to this project has ensured that planning towards the delivery of this sport and recreation asset has continued to progress. The Matamata Futures Trust (the Trust), Matamata College, Ministry of Education, Council, Sport Waikato, Iwi representatives and many funders, have worked together to reach this point and are committed to completing this project in early 2026.

Care has been taken to ensure the facility will meet the wider communities needs, and last year a decision was made to move the location of the Hub closer to the central area of Matamata College. A public meeting was held in September, and another in November with sports groups and other key people, to listen to their feedback.

This decision has created an opportunity that will benefit both the school and the wider community. It will mean the new facility can be used by the College during school hours, when demand tends to be low. "School community partnerships enable facilities to be constructed with a wider range of spaces for the benefit of not only the school but also the wider community - allowing for a greater range of activities that meet the needs and abilities of all age groups,” says Matthew Cooper, Sport Waikato chief executive.

The Trust, with support from Council, has secured $8.99 million for the build and efforts continue to fundraise the remaining approximately $2.5 million. Generous contributions have come from community-minded individuals, such as Bruce Magan who committed $1 million early in the project, local families and businesses, the Hinuera Rugby Club, Council, and Trust Waikato. Trust Waikato chief executive Dennis Turton has acknowledged the outstanding work of the local Trust in raising a significant portion of funds through the community for this project and "was also pleased to support this valuable community asset.” Applications are being made to other funding organisations who are also interested in supporting this project.

Visit https://matamatastadium.co.nz/ for more information on the project and fundraising progress.