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Project Home Page
Background
Youth and Multicultural Initiative: Late last year, Christchurch City Councillor Tyla Harrison-Hunt met with the Banks Peninsula Community Board to seek project suggestions related to his two key portfolios: Youth and Multicultural Portfolio. (meeting minutes)
To better understand his vision, I consulted various stakeholders and gathered insights, which are documented here. These ideas, proposed by a diverse group of participants, aim to support Councillor Harrison-Hunt in presenting initiatives to the council and working towards their implementation.
Open Forum: Banks Peninsula Sports and Recreation Incorporated (also known as Banks Peninsula Community Sports Complex
Open Forum: Akaroa Voices for Peace and Regenerate Banks Peninsula
Open Forum: Helps Pōhatu Conservation Trust and Regenerate Banks Peninsula
Note: This is an evolving community initiative and has not yet been endorsed by the Banks Peninsula Community Board. In this post, “we” refers to the Banks Peninsula community as a whole, including both residents and visitors, with a particular focus on Akaroa and the surrounding bays.
A Vision for an Inclusive Community Hub
Imagine a facility featuring modernised amenities, upgraded shower and toilet facilities, and enhanced dining and multimedia areas. Outside, vibrant multicultural displays, outdoor exercise equipment for all age groups, and a revitalised skateboard area could create an engaging environment. Inspired by the Margaret Mahy Family Playground (a Playground Designed for and by Kids), the space could also include a running track and additional outdoor fitness equipment. These enhancements would complement the council’s existing investment in Akaroa’s tennis and multipurpose courts, bringing high-quality recreational and cultural facilities to the community’s doorstep – eliminating the need to travel to Christchurch. This project would foster a vibrant, inclusive space, benefiting both residents and visitors.
Addressing a Key Gap: A Dedicated Youth Gathering Space
One of the key gaps identified is the absence of a dedicated youth gathering space. With minor upgrades, the facility could be transformed into a dynamic youth and community hub serving Akaroa, the greater Banks Peninsula, residents, families, and visitors alike. The proposed upgrades include modernising the kitchen facilities to better support community gatherings and cultural events. Upgrading the shower and toilet facilities will ensure inclusive access, supporting diverse cultural practices and increasing participation in events. This need was highlighted during the BLAST (Blue Light Alternative Strategy for Teenagers) programme at Akaroa Area School, where local police identified the importance of such spaces. Renovations will meet universal design standards, including disability access and improved gender-neutral restrooms.
Enhancing the dining and multimedia areas will create dynamic spaces for educational workshops, cultural presentations, youth programmes, and social interaction. With Akaroa Area School’s first-year class comprising students from seven different nationalities, celebrating multiculturalism within the community is vital. Improvements will include modular seating, high-quality audio-visual equipment, and flexible room configurations to support diverse activities.
Revitalising Outdoor Spaces
Outdoor spaces will also be transformed to celebrate the rich cultural diversity of Banks Peninsula. Multicultural displays and installations will be commissioned to highlight the unique heritage of the region. Local artists will be engaged to create art installations, interpretive signage, and interactive exhibits that enhance public spaces. Additionally, installing outdoor exercise equipment for all age groups will encourage physical activity and well-being among youth and the broader community. Durable, all-weather fitness equipment will be strategically placed to ensure accessibility for all.
To provide a safe and engaging environment for youth, the existing skateboard area will be upgraded. The Children’s Bay Skate Park has significant potential to become a vibrant recreational space for both residents and visitors. Local police have identified the opportunity to create more activities for youth, and the proposed upgrades include new ramps, rails, and safety features. The design process will actively involve local youth to ensure the space meets their needs and expectations. Drawing inspiration from the Margaret Mahy Family Playground, the redevelopment of the Akaroa Sports Pavilion will incorporate culturally themed play zones, interactive installations, and nature-inspired play equipment, ensuring a welcoming and engaging environment for all children and youth.
Community and Visitor Benefits
This project will provide significant benefits for both residents and visitors. For the local community, it will establish a safe and engaging space for youth activities and cultural events, addressing the growing demand for community hubs. The initiative aligns with the Strengthening Communities Strategy, fostering greater social cohesion through multicultural programmes. Additionally, it will support youth development and social well-being, complementing the Christchurch City Council’s Youth Strategy. For visitors, the enhanced cultural experience through outdoor multicultural displays will contribute to Akaroa’s appeal as an inclusive destination, promoting it as a vibrant and culturally rich community. This aligns with the Visitor Strategy objectives for sustainable tourism growth.
Alignment with Key Council Strategies
This initiative aligns with several Christchurch City Council strategies and policies. The Strengthening Communities Strategy promotes community well-being, engagement, and inclusion through accessible, multipurpose facilities. The Youth Strategy enhances support for youth initiatives by providing safe and supportive environments for engagement and leadership. The Multicultural Strategy encourages cultural inclusion and diversity, fostering a community where all cultures feel represented and engaged. Additionally, the Community Facilities Network Plan aims to optimise the use of existing council-owned facilities to meet diverse community needs.
Call to Action: Have Your Say and SHARE
We invite residents and community stakeholders to submit their support for this initiative through the Annual Plan 2025/26 process. By advocating for these upgrades, we can ensure that the Akaroa Sports Pavilion and Recreation Ground become a welcoming, inclusive, and dynamic space for youth and multicultural engagement. Let’s work together to create a facility that reflects the diversity, vibrancy, and community spirit of Akaroa and Banks Peninsula.
Let the council know that you support Youth and Multicultural Initiative Akaroa, Banks Peninsula.
Deadline is 28 March 2025
You can either make a submission online or send your submission to CCCPlan@ccc.govt.nz