Far North Flourishes: Te Hiku Revitalisation and Sports Hub Projects Unveiled

The dawn of a new era was celebrated with the opening of the Te Hiku Revitalisation project, a $10.16 million initiative that has transformed the towns of Kaitāia, Awanui, and Ahipara.

In a significant boost to the Far North, two pivotal community projects have been inaugurated, marking a milestone in regional development, as announced by Minister Shane Jones.

The dawn of a new era was celebrated with the opening of the Te Hiku Revitalisation project, a $10.16 million initiative that has transformed the towns of Kaitāia, Awanui, and Ahipara. The Far North District Council, contributing $2.5 million, partnered in this venture, enhancing community infrastructure with new pathways, parking facilities, lighting, seating, and cultural art installations. These additions not only beautify the towns but also resonate with the area's rich cultural tapestry. The project's excellence was recognized at the IAP2 Australasia Conference in 2022, where it was honored as the International Project of the Year.

The redevelopment, supported by a $7.66 million grant from the COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund's Infrastructure Reference Group, has been a boon for local employment, creating 200 jobs over its four-year span.

Additionally, the Te Hiku Sports Hub in Kaitāia has opened its doors. The indoor aquatic and fitness center, which received a $3.6 million grant from the Provincial Growth Fund, stands as a testament to years of planning and perseverance through challenges such as the pandemic, adverse weather, and road closures.

Minister Jones expressed his satisfaction with the completion of both projects, highlighting them as exemplars of the potential for regional communities to thrive with government support. These projects signify a leap forward in rejuvenating public spaces and fostering community spirit in the Far North.