New basketball court opens in Bay View

Shooting a few hoops on their home turf is now a possibility for young people in Bay View. 

This week the community celebrated the opening of Petane Domain’s first ever basketball court. 

Bay View locals Lisa Clark and Paula Nicol wanted to do something for older kids in the area. Lisa and others were helping at the fire station for several days after Cyclone Gabrielle. As the response edged towards recovery, Lisa and Paula wondered what they could do to help the children. 

They took a shot at applying for the Napier Mayoral Relief Fund to pay for a court, and were successful. 

It is awesome to have something to appeal to older children, says Lisa. “I’m so excited by this. We have had a hard time, and it’s great to have something positive happen.” 

The fund has provided $25,000 for the project. The court is a small yet important part of a popular and well-loved community asset, says Napier Mayor Kirsten Wise. 

“Other courts Council look after are very popular, so providing one for this area has the potential to bring enjoyment to so many people, particularly young people. It is one way Council is able to give back to people who are working hard to keep their community connected. ” 

The 10ha Domain has been home to many sporting codes, such as rugby, football, bowls and tennis. 

Following the cyclone, the clubrooms were also the school-day refuge for many Eskdale School students, until the end of March. 

As Lisa stated in the application to Mayor Wise, while the community was devastated, many Bay View families saw wonderful connections being made between younger people. 

Bay View has few facilities appealing to youth, and the Domain is one of the few areas where children and families can meet and mingle with ease. It has a small playground for young children, and open grass areas. 

Over the past year Napier City Council has installed a new cricket wicket at the Domain. The car park is also due for an upgrade.

20 September 2023

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