The Sportsville Dargaville facility project reached a major milestone when the blessing of the Memorial Park site and the turning of the first sod took place recently. Local Kaumatuas blessed the site after Kauri Coast Recreational Society Board Chairman Chris Biddles had turned the first sod in what was a momentous day for the Board.

Conceived in 2012 after being the major recommendation of the Dargaville Sports Infrastructure Plan, the multi-sport project (that brings together 10 organisations in one facility) has been driven by an enthusiastic and committed Board of local people, and supported by Sport Northland. Major funding grants have been received from Foundation North and NZ Lotteries in addition to smaller contributions from Pub Charity, Kaipara District Council, Dargaville Tennis Club and other local sports clubs (netball, football, rugby league, rugby and petanque), who will use the facility once complete.

The proposed sports complex includes six courts for netball and tennis and a supporting facility that will include four large changing rooms, much needed storage, public toilets, a canteen and a multi-purpose room designed for meetings and small functions.

Arco Group will begin work on the building on Monday 13 November, while Robinson Asphalts will start the civil work on the courts in February next year. Griffiths and Associates are providing the project management.