If you’ve driven past the Waiau Pa tennis courts recently, you may have noticed something exciting happening. A quiet transformation is underway, thanks to a dedicated group of local volunteers who have generously given their time, skills, and energy to revitalise this much-loved community space.
Over recent weeks, a small but mighty team has come together to begin repairing and restoring the courts and surrounding area. Work has included repairing and replacing nets and posts, securing the clubhouse, fixing sections of fencing, and beginning landscaping to create a welcoming space for families and the wider community to enjoy. Seeing people rally around this local asset has been incredibly heartening, and I am extremely grateful for the enthusiasm, practical know-how, and willingness to help.
Special thanks must also go to our local Menzshed, whose support and expertise have played a key role in getting several of these projects off the ground. Community collaboration like this is what makes Waiau Pa such a special place.
A Unique Local Asset with a Complicated Past
The Waiau Pa Tennis Club presents a bit of a conundrum. While the land pays rates, it has no official owner. For the past 20-plus years, my role has effectively been that of caretaker. The Tennis Club itself was removed from the Incorporated Register on 18 October 1988 and has not functioned as an official tennis club since that time.
Despite this, the courts remain an important community asset — one with huge potential for future generations if we can protect, maintain, and reimagine how it is used.
What’s Been Happening on the Ground
As we work to revitalise the space, you may have already spotted some of the early improvements. The roadside fence has been removed in preparation for replacement, excess dirt and weeds around the court have been cleared, and the vine covering the practice wall has been removed. A new soft wire guard will be installed above the wall to help protect it going forward.
All three nets are now up, with further work still planned in this area. Line painting is currently being investigated to help bring the courts back to a playable standard. The club shed has also had its doors reinforced, with a padlock reinstated to help deter unwanted visitors and protect equipment.
What’s Next
There is still plenty on the “to do” list. Repairing the security fencing at the car park entrance is a priority now that the concrete car stop blocks have been repositioned to prevent vehicles reversing into the fence. Larger projects such as new fencing and resurfacing the courts will require funding, which we will need to source as we move forward.
Alongside this, we are exploring how the courts can become self-sustaining and cared for in the long term. Our vision is clear: to have a functional, well-maintained sports court that future generations in Waiau Pa can enjoy.
Get Involved
This is no small task, and community involvement will be key to its success. If you live in Waiau Pa or Clarks Beach and would like to help, have practical skills to offer, know of potential funding opportunities, or simply have ideas or suggestions, we would love to hear from you.
Together, we can ensure this local tennis court remains a well-loved, well-used community asset for years to come.
