Harry Barker Reserve in Te Hapara is your go-to spot for sports and leisure. This spacious park, transformed from a former golf course, features six cricket pitches, an artificial turf for hockey, and multiple grass turfs for various sports. You'll find clubrooms and modern amenities catering to local clubs and community events. With plans for further upgrades, including an indoor training facility, the park aims to enhance your experience. Whether you're playing, watching, or simply enjoying the surroundings, there's always something happening here. Stick around to discover everything this vibrant park has to offer.
Major Highlights
- Harry Barker Reserve features six high-grade cricket pitches and an artificial turf for hockey, supporting various sports activities.
- The park hosts diverse user groups, including local cricket and football clubs, promoting community engagement and inclusivity.
- Ample parking and accessible facilities ensure a user-friendly experience for visitors of all ages and abilities.
- Frequent community events establish the park as a central gathering place, enhancing social cohesion and local pride.
- Planned upgrades, including a new indoor cricket facility, aim to improve infrastructure and encourage increased physical activity.
Location and Historical Significance
Nestled in Te Hapara, Gisborne, Harry Barker Reserve is easily accessible from main roads and close to local amenities, making it a prime location for both residents and visitors. This recreational area not only serves as a hub for sports but also carries significant cultural heritage. Named after Sir Harry Heaton Barker, who was the mayor of Gisborne for an impressive 27 years, the reserve reflects his dedication to the community.
Developed in the late 1960s, the reserve was transformed from a nine-hole golf course to a vibrant park that hosts cricket grounds and various community events. Its historical significance is evident as it has been the backdrop for many notable cricket matches, including first-class games and Plunket Shield events.
These milestones highlight the reserve's community impact, fostering local pride and unity. As you stroll through the park or enjoy a game, you're part of a legacy that celebrates Gisborne's sporting identity and the contributions of its leaders.
Harry Barker Reserve not only enhances your recreational experience but also connects you to the rich history of the area.
Sports Facilities Overview
Harry Barker Reserve boasts impressive sports facilities that cater to a variety of athletic pursuits.
You'll find six high-grade cricket pitches, one top-notch artificial turf for hockey, and nine medium-grade grass turfs suitable for various sports. While football fields are present, they may need relocation to optimize facility usage. With a weekly usage of 41 hours, this park stands out as one of the busiest Council-owned sports fields.
In addition to the playing fields, there are essential ancillary facilities. Clubrooms are leased by Poverty Bay Cricket and Poverty Bay Hockey, and you'll also find a grandstand, public toilets, and change rooms.
The park features three floodlights and six cricket nets, providing ample lighting and practice options.
Looking ahead, plans are in place for the demolition or repurposing of the aging grandstand and the introduction of a new multi-use indoor cricket training facility. Upgrades to the playing fields will enhance overall sports surface quality, ensuring the park remains fit for purpose.
With high satisfaction ratings from users, Harry Barker Reserve continues to support a vibrant sports community throughout the year.
User Groups and Participation
Regularly, a diverse array of user groups takes advantage of the facilities at Barker Reserve, making it a vibrant hub for sports and community activities. From cricket matches hosted by the Poverty Bay Cricket Association to bustling football games across two fields, you'll find a rich tapestry of events unfolding here.
The reserve's accessibility encourages youth engagement, particularly among those aged 12-17, who participate actively in various sports, regardless of their socio-economic backgrounds. Local clubs, including Athletics, Badminton, and Basketball, contribute to the diversity inclusion, inviting individuals from different ethnicities and backgrounds to join in.
Community events are frequently held, showcasing the park as a gathering place for all. While adult participation rates tend to be lower, efforts continue to address these disparities and improve engagement among all demographics.
With extensive consultation and support from local entities, Barker Reserve is committed to fostering community well-being. As you engage in activities here, you're not just participating in sports; you're becoming part of a larger movement that enhances social connections and promotes health and educational benefits for everyone involved.
Maintenance and Future Upgrades
As you explore Harry Barker Reserve, you'll notice plans for grandstand renovations that aim to enhance your experience at the park.
Additionally, a proposed indoor facility will provide a versatile space for various sports, ensuring that you have access to quality training and recreational opportunities.
Together, these upgrades will elevate the park's offerings for all user groups.
Grandstand Renovation Plans
With the grandstand at Harry Barker Reserve nearing the end of its life, plans for renovation and upgrades are essential to ensure the facility remains functional and meets community needs.
The current state of the grandstand requires more intensive maintenance, making it crucial to consider a new grandstand design that accommodates cricket and hockey.
Demolition or repurposing of the existing structure is planned, with funding already secured, including support from Trust Tairāwhiti.
The renovation timeline hinges on the initial approval from Liveable Assets Management, followed by a detailed design phase. Once approved, construction can commence, aligned with broader sports facilities development plans.
Upgrades will include improved seating, relocatable changing rooms, and enhanced lighting for the playing fields.
These changes aim to make the facilities fit for purpose while boosting community engagement.
With 41 hours of weekly usage by local sports clubs, the enhancements will significantly benefit cricket, hockey, and other sports at the reserve.
Ultimately, these renovation plans will ensure the grandstand continues to serve the community and foster participation in sports for years to come.
Proposed Indoor Facility
Why is there a pressing need for a proposed indoor facility at Harry Barker Reserve? The current grandstand's end of life and maintenance issues have highlighted a significant gap in infrastructure, particularly for indoor training. This facility aims to address the demand from cricket and hockey clubs for better training spaces and modern standards.
Here are three key facility benefits:
- Enhanced Training Opportunities: With 3-5 indoor courts, athletes can train year-round, regardless of weather conditions.
- Community Engagement: The facility will foster increased participation in sports, bringing the community together.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Integrated design with existing sports hubs will optimize resource use, ensuring sustainability and efficiency.
The proposed indoor facility aligns with the overall sports facilities plan, ensuring that Harry Barker Reserve meets contemporary needs.
Designed with amenities like changing rooms and proper lighting, it aims to provide an enjoyable experience for all users. Active management will help keep operational costs low while adhering to health and safety standards.
With funding commitments already secured, this project is set to transform Harry Barker Reserve by 2028, ensuring a bright future for indoor training and community sports.
Ancillary Amenities Available
At Harry Barker Reserve, you'll find excellent clubroom leasing opportunities that can enhance your sporting events.
Plus, the ample parking and accessibility features make it easy for everyone to enjoy the park.
Whether you're hosting a game or a community gathering, these amenities support a seamless experience.
Clubroom Leasing Opportunities
Clubroom leasing opportunities at Harry Barker Reserve provide a unique chance for local sports organizations to access well-maintained facilities that cater to both cricket and hockey.
As the clubrooms are jointly owned by the PB Cricket and PB Hockey clubs, you can benefit from a collaborative environment perfect for fostering community ties and enhancing sports participation.
When you consider clubroom leasing, it's essential to recognize the ancillary amenities available to make your experience even better:
- Spectator Grandstand: Comfortable seating for fans during matches.
- Public Toilets and Change Rooms: Convenient facilities for players and spectators alike.
- Storage Options: Marble finishes and sports equipment storage ensure a professional atmosphere.
These partnership opportunities allow your organization to engage with the community while enjoying access to shared resources.
With the clubrooms located within the pavilion, you'll have direct access to top-notch sporting facilities, including six cricket pitches and an artificial turf field.
Parking and Accessibility Features
While navigating Harry Barker Reserve, you'll find essential parking and accessibility features that enhance your experience. Since the reserve is part of a larger sports complex, parking facilities are likely shared, which means you might encounter some parking challenges during peak times.
The proximity to local residential areas can also impact parking availability, but there are no designated parking fees, making it easier on your wallet. Parking is managed by the Gisborne District Council, ensuring that basic needs are met.
In terms of accessibility improvements, the reserve boasts well-maintained pathways and walkways that provide easy access to the cricket ground. However, specific features for individuals with disabilities aren't detailed, which may be a consideration for some visitors.
The terrain, influenced by the area's former use as a golf course, could pose challenges for those with mobility concerns. Nonetheless, general maintenance by the council ensures that basic accessibility is maintained throughout the park.
While you won't find cafes or restaurants directly within the reserve, nearby amenities may offer additional options after your visit. Overall, Harry Barker Reserve aims to accommodate a wide range of visitors, from sports enthusiasts to leisurely park-goers.
Community Engagement and Development
Community input has been central to the development of Harry Barker Reserve, ensuring that the park meets the needs of its users. Through extensive consultation with various sports organizations and community members, the planning process has been shaped by genuine feedback. This collaboration has a significant consultation impact, reflecting the community's priorities.
Here are three key elements of community engagement:
- User Feedback: Surveys show a 78% satisfaction rate among users of Council-owned sports facilities, highlighting the importance of listening to your community.
- Local Involvement: Clubs and schools actively participated in planning, ensuring that the new facilities cater to diverse community needs.
- Funding Support: Substantial funding from Trust Tairāwhiti and government initiatives has been secured, showcasing a strong commitment to enhancing local sports and recreation.
As these upgrades are implemented, you'll notice improvements in health outcomes and social cohesion, fostering a vibrant community atmosphere.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Park's Opening Hours for Visitors?
The park doesn't have specific opening hours for visitors, so you can enjoy its accessibility at your convenience. You'll find various visitor amenities available, ensuring a comfortable experience for sports, leisure, and relaxation.
Is There an Entry Fee to Use the Sports Facilities?
Access to the sports facilities feels like opening a door to a vibrant community. There's no general entry fee; however, maintenance schedules influence booking costs, ensuring you enjoy well-kept grounds for your activities.
Are Pets Allowed in Harry Barker Reserve?
Pets aren't allowed in the reserve due to pet regulations. You'll need to follow leash requirements in designated areas where dogs can be exercised, ensuring they're under control and supervised at all times.
Can I Book the Facilities for Private Events?
Yes, you can book the facilities for private events. Check with leasing clubs or the Gisborne District Council for event rentals. You'll enjoy great facility amenities like clubrooms, change rooms, and ample parking during your event.
Are There Any Food and Drink Options Available On-Site?
There aren't any food vendors or drink options on-site, but you'll find picnic areas perfect for enjoying takeout from nearby eateries. With plenty of local options, you won't go hungry during your visit.
Conclusion
As you explore Harry Barker Reserve, you can't help but feel the vibrant energy of sports and leisure pulsating through the park. With plans for future upgrades and community involvement on the horizon, the excitement is palpable. What new facilities will emerge to enhance your experience? Who will you meet as you engage with fellow enthusiasts? As the sun sets, one thing's for sure: the park's potential is just beginning to unfold, and you won't want to miss it.
