The ground has been broken for the Network Waitaki Event Centre build at Ōamaru’s Centennial Park.

Representatives from Waitaki District Council, Network Waitaki, the Waitaki Event Centre Trust, Apollo Projects, Oamaru Veterinary Centre, and Dough Hurst met at Centennial Park on Tuesday to break ground for the future Network Waitaki Events Centre.

Before the first sod was turned, Waitaki District Mayor Gary Kircher thanked the trust members for all their hard work. He also thanked Doug and Donna Hurst and family, for their $5 million contribution to the project. The Waitaki District Council has also contributed $15 million.

The centre had been a vision for the community for at least 18 years, Gary said. 

“After today, our next big event will be the opening, and the community getting to use the facility they asked us to build.”

Network Waitaki chief executive Dylan Andrews said the board of directors and the Waitaki Power Trust are thrilled to be part of the project.

“It’s definitely needed, and we look forward to celebrating this facility opening in 2026.”

Apollo Projects Southern regional manager Gerry Sullivan said the company is “privileged and proud” to be leading the build.

“We enjoy building sports facilities, and we’ve built a few of them. They become a real focal point of the community, and it surprises us just how many different groups and clubs make use of the space created,” he said.

Local contractors will also be offered the opportunity to be part of the project as it progresses.

Fundraising is ongoing, with the Purchase a Plaque scheme for those wanting to make even a small contribution and have their name on the new building. Future opportunities to contribute will be made public soon.