Saturday dawned sunny and bright as the Ōpōtiki Bowling Club officially opened its new artificial turf green.

President Howard Clark welcomed club players, members and visitors, along with patron and life member Heather Looney and district councillor Shona Browne.

He acknowledged the extensive work behind the project, thanking the committee, sponsors and giving special recognition to Mike Scholefield, whose energy reinvigorated the club and drove the successful fundraising campaign.

At the same time, Scholefield also led the revitalisation of the dormant grass green, ensuring it could be used during the replacement of the main turf by Fieldturf.

Fieldturf were commended for their practical, cost saving advice, including the reuse and resale of the old turf.

Clark said the result was a facility the club could be proud of.

Browne reminded members what a remarkable achievement this was for the 122-year-old club, especially considering how many sporting clubs in Ōpōtiki had closed over recent decades.

Looney was invited to cut the ribbon on the new green and then deliver the first jack (kitty).

The club’s newest member, Pokoina O Pakitoa Mani, bowled the first bowl to officially open play.

A 3x3 tournament followed, with triples teams playing three games.

Teams and players from Whakatāne, Ōhope, and Ōpōtiki took part, making for a lively and enjoyable opening competition.

Ōpōtiki Glass were the valued sponsors for the day and catering was provided by Ōpōtiki Bowling Club after the games and enjoyed by all.