Manawa Trust seeks views on up to $15 million for arena extension

Residents of the Western Bay of Plenty can now tell Manawa Trust what they think of a proposed contribution of up to $15 million to extend Mercury Baypark Arena.

Trustees at Manawa Trust, formerly TECT Community Trust, have agreed in principle to make the contribution. Before making a final decision, the trust is inviting the community to share their views. Feedback is open until 4:00pm on Monday 19 October.

The trust says the extension aims to help address the region’s growing shortage of indoor sports facilities. It would also provide more room for regular community use and larger events.

Manawa Trust Chief Executive Officer Wayne Werder said community feedback is an important part of any significant funding decision.

Werder believes the project has the potential to expand opportunities for sport and attract major events. It could also improve the region’s ability to host concerts, exhibitions and community gatherings. The trust wants to understand how the community feels before any decision is made.

What is proposed

The proposed contribution would support an expansion of the arena. The aim is a larger indoor facility for the growing Western Bay of Plenty region.

Manawa Trust was an early supporter of the arena. It approved a $6 million grant towards construction in 2009.

The arena opened in 2011. Since then it has supported everything from local recreation to major sporting fixtures, conferences, exhibitions and live shows. The trust says an extension could build on that role by increasing capacity and widening the range and scale of activities the arena could hold.

How to have your say

Manawa Trust is seeking feedback from local residents, community groups, organisations and stakeholders across the region. Submissions will help Trustees decide whether to confirm the proposed contribution.

The trust welcomes feedback both for and against the proposal. It says the information it has provided is there to help the community consider the proposal.

People can learn more about the project and make a submission online. Submissions close at 4:00pm on Monday 19 October.