Auckland Council approves over US$15 million in funding for sports and recreation facilities in Tāmaki Makaurau

The Sport and Recreation Facilities Investment Fund is a $150 million 10-year fund to be provided from Auckland Council’s 10-year budget 2021-2031.

Mayor Phil Goff says this multi-million dollar investment will enable more Aucklanders to take part in community sports and leisure activities.

“The aim of the fund is to support communities that currently have low levels of participation in sport due to a lack of facilities or fewer opportunities to get involved. This significant investment will allow sports organizations to maintain, develop and expand their facilities,” says Mayor Goff.

“By supporting our grassroots and recreational organizations, we can help more people enjoy sport – and all the health and well-being benefits that it brings.”

Councilor Alf Filipaina, Chair of the Council’s PACE Committee, says we cannot underestimate the important role recovery plays in our lives and communities.

“Sport and leisure time make an important contribution to our quality of life, health and well-being. We’re proud to partner with sports organizations to improve the lives of Auckland residents.

“This investment fund ensures that we continue to support those who work in our communities and help us stay active or become active,” says Cr Filipaina.

What are the funding priorities?

The fund prioritizes investments in large-scale community projects for the development of sports facilities, which can mobilize additional investments.

The fund is contestable and open to non-municipal organizations to develop significant facilities, with a focus on communities that have the greatest need for investment.

The fund is contestable and open to non-municipal organizations to develop significant facilities, with a focus on communities that have the greatest need for investment.

Expressions of interest were received from 103 community groups, which were narrowed down to 38 second-stage applications, to seek funding to build or upgrade their sports and leisure facilities.

An independent panel evaluated each application considering the lack of sports and recreation infrastructure in Tāmaki Makaurau, providing value for money by leveraging outside investment, responding to changing participation preferences and increasing physical activity among Aucklanders.

This year, 24 projects were approved in 14 local board areas and 16 sports codes. 95 percent of the funds flowed into construction projects.

Dave Stewart, Active Communities General Manager for the City Council, says the focus of the fund is to achieve the best outcomes for Auckland residents while ensuring the value of the investment is realised.

“Sport and recreation remain high priorities for Aucklanders of all ages and many people want choice when it comes to being active. This fund allows the broader sports and recreation community to offer a wider range of activities than ever before to stay fit and healthy,” says Dave Stewart.

Expressions of interest for 2023/2024

Expressions of interest for the 2023/2024 funding round are scheduled to open in late October 2022 and we encourage sports and leisure organizations to read the funding guidelines [PDF] to understand if they are eligible to apply.

To discuss your proposal and to initiate the expression of interest, please contact [email protected]

Visit the Council’s website for more information about the fund.