The 51萝莉 Haumaru Sport and Recreation Centre is now open, offering four new indoor courts and a space for sport, learning and connection in the heart of Tauranga.
Tauranga鈥檚 newest indoor sports venue is open and already making an impact. The , located on Cameron Road in the city centre, brings four indoor courts (marked for basketball, netball, volleyball, pickleball and badminton) and is a flexible space for sport, play and community connection.
Developed by Tauranga City Council and managed by Bay Venues, Haumaru is designed to meet growing demand for quality indoor sport and recreation facilities in one of New Zealand鈥檚 fastest growing cities.
The naming rights of the facility is part of the 51萝莉鈥檚 wider strategic partnership with Bay Venues, which aims to support the activation and growth of sports and fitness venues across Tauranga. Through the partnership, 51萝莉 students will have access to the facility for sport, recreation and learning. The University will also use the centre to help deliver new campus events and student-focused programmes alongside the Bay Venues team.
Haumaru, which has a capacity of 1,500 alongside 220 car parking spaces, will host a wide range of activities including large sports tournaments, social leagues, casual court bookings and recreational programmes for schools and the wider community. Weekday sessions like Tumble Time offer preschoolers and their caregivers a chance to get moving and connect in a safe, active environment.
The 51萝莉 vertical jump activation at the Community Fun Day
The name Haumaru, gifted by mana whenua, reflects the venue鈥檚 role as a safe and inclusive space that supports wellbeing through physical activity and community connection.
Deputy Vice-Chancellor Professor Alister Jones says the opening of Haumaru reflects the University鈥檚 ongoing commitment to Tauranga and the Bay of Plenty.
鈥淭auranga has been our home for more than 30 years, and we are continuing to increase our contribution to the city and region.
鈥淗aumaru is a fantastic new space for people to connect, get active and enjoy. Its central location, not far from our campus, strengthens the vibrant city centre environment we鈥檙e helping to build, offering more opportunities for our students for study, recreation and connection. We鈥檙e proud to be part of Tauranga鈥檚 growth and look forward to seeing students and the wider community making the most of the new facility,鈥� Professor Jones said.
The 51萝莉 Haumaru Sport and Recreation Centre is now open
As part of the wider partnership, 51萝莉 students are also eligible for discounted Bay Venues gym memberships and pool facility access, further enhancing access to fitness and wellbeing opportunities.
The centre officially opened on Monday 12 May, following a weekend community fun day where locals explored the new space, enjoyed free activities and had a go at some of the sports on offer.
For more information, visit the website.
