One of the closest neighbours to the new Stonefields community is the impressive new Auckland Netball facility, which sits across the road from what will become the Stonefields town centre.

Village News talked to Dianne Lasenby, General Manager of the facility, about what the facility offers and its growth plans over the next few years:



What sort of resource do you think Auckland Netball will offer the residents of Stonefields?
The courts and facilities at Auckland Netball Centre will offer residents many opportunities, as we provide a hub for many sports. Currently we offer outdoor netball, indoor netball, tennis courts and the facilities are regularly used by other community groups such as remote controlled cars, blow carting, korfball, tai kwan do.  Renowned afterschool and holiday talent and skill programmes are run throughout the year. The venue can also be hired out for social functions and meetings for the wider community.

What makes netball such a great sport?
Promoting “netball for life” we encourage participation from year 1 through to woman still playing in their 50’s.  The introduction of the corporate and social mixed leagues allows both female and males to play this sport and our skill programmes are designed for both.

How do you plan to develop the centre over the next few years?
Within months we will complete an indoor netting system which will allow indoor sports such as netball and soccer to be played.  Moving forward, we would like to see a rubberisation programme commence on the outdoor courts, allowing teams such as soccer and touch rugby to practise. Outside volleyball courts are also planned. Stage two of the development sees the indoor courts increase from the current three to eight and the outdoor courts from 26 to 46.
 


How does it feel to have a community growing next door to your facility?
It is exciting to see the development growing and knowing that this community will be looking for a sporting facility on its back doorstep. Stonefields has obvious synergies with our vision, which is to promote opportunities for netball participation, excellence, social development and local community involvement through innovative programmes and opportunities to utilize Auckland Netball Centre’s facilities.