Ōtaki College has benefited from a $350,000 contribution from Kāpiti Coast District Council to refurbish its ageing gymnasium.

The council agreed to the grant, which will be spread over six years, on condition that the gym will be available for community use for sporting events and training.

The funding, which was agreed through Council’s Long Term Plan 2018–38, will allow local sports teams and clubs to access the gym outside of school hours for the duration of the refurbishment for a small koha.

The funding will go towards upgrades to the two gym rooms, offices, changing rooms and toilets and follows a successful application to the NZ Community Trust for the construction of a new climbing wall at the gymnasium. The gym will remain open throughout the upgrade.

“We know that getting active has really positive impacts on mental, physical and social well-being,” says principal Andy Fraser. “I’m delighted that we can progress our plans to create a high quality facility for our students and wider community that encourages participation and provides sporting opportunities.”

I want to acknowledge the support of [Ōtaki Ward Councillor] James Cootes, the Ōtaki Community Board and members of our school community for their commitment to getting the project under way.”