Waimana Sports Club Secures Major Grant for Community Upgrade

Photo Supplied: Trust Horizon

The Waimana Sports & Cultural Club has received a significant boost, thanks to a $62,913 grant from Trust Horizon to revitalise its historic building and future-proof it for generations to come.

The 120-year-old club, a cornerstone of the local community, will undergo a full electrical rewiring, installation of LED lighting, insulation, heat pumps, bathroom extractor fans, and new kitchen appliances.

In recent years, a newly formed committee has breathed fresh life into the club.

“The committee is made up of locals who really care,” says Club President John Brown. “Like many in the community, we have amazing memories of the Club, and we’re doing everything we can to restore it to its former glory.”

The upgrade is part of a wider strategy to strengthen the club’s presence and impact. Goals include growing membership by 20%, improving operations, and increasing the use of te reo Māori and tikanga in club activities.

Creating a safe and welcoming environment is at the heart of the project. With aging wiring posing risks, the electrical upgrade was identified as the first priority. “We needed to make the space safe before we could welcome more people in,” Brown adds.

To make it happen, the committee applied for funding from Trust Horizon. “This was our first time applying for a grant like this, and Trust Horizon supported us every step of the way,” says Club Treasurer Kohine Ratu.

Looking ahead, the committee sees the Club not only as a physical space, but as a cultural and social anchor for Waimana. “The Club is the backbone of our community,” Ratu added. “We want our kids to have the same special memories here that we do. This grant is helping us rebuild, and it’s an amazing start.”