The Rex Morpeth Recreation Hub project is moving ahead with a new governance structure in place and a staged investment approach – setting the foundations for long-term improvements to one of the Whakatāne district’s most valued and well-used community facilities.

The project has been shaped by strong feedback received through the 2024-34 long-term plan process where the community called for urgent health and safety issues to be resolved before any major redevelopment took place.

General manager community experience Alexandra Pickles said the approach reflected what the community asked for.

“People told us they want to see progress, but it needs to be practical, affordable, and future-focused.”

Phase 1 is under way and focuses on health and safety improvements, functional upgrades, and further planning, with up to $7.8 million allocated over three years.

“We heard loud and clear that people want us to start with addressing the most immediate health and safety needs, while setting a realistic plan for the future, and securing external funding before any major redevelopment proceeds,” Ms Pickles said.

Through the long-term plan process, the council signalled that any major redevelopment work will only proceed after Phase 1 is complete, external funding has been secured, and a formal “stop/go” decision opportunity during the next round of 2027-37 long-term plan deliberations.

Ms Pickles said the project was about doing what was right for the community in the short and long term.

“The redevelopment of the Rex Morpeth Recreation Hub is not a new project.

“We’re at a point where these commitments must be delivered on to keep the facilities and hub open and functioning safely.

“This staged approach gives us the best opportunity to ensure these spaces are safe, functional and future-fit, while being realistic about cost and funding.

“We know the community is passionate about this space, and we are too,” she said.

The Hub includes the Whakatāne War Memorial Hall, Rex Morpeth Park, Rugby Park, the Whakatāne Aquatic and Fitness Centre, Whakatāne Arts and Crafts Centre, and several sports clubs and facilities. The Hub is used by thousands of people every year, from sports teams and arts groups to event organisers and tamariki learning to swim.

“This has been a long time coming and it’s exciting to see momentum building again. We know there’s still a long way to go, but we’re moving forward with the appropriate checks and balances in place,” Ms Pickles said.

An update on the project will be presented to the Living Together Committee tomorrow, including detail on the governance group and next steps.