A $2 per person hourly fee is being trialled at the Waimate Event Centre for casual use of the courts by children of school age. The fee is applicable on weekdays from 9am to 5pm, subject to availability of the courts.
The fee trial is a decisive and enthusiastic response to a youth audit on the event centre that took place in October 2025.
The audit was commissioned and funded by Sport Canterbury as a one-off opportunity to receive a youth-centred perspective, see the event centre through the eyes of its young users and to give local children a voice on how the facility was meeting their needs and where there was room for improvement.
A group of 14 auditors from Waimate High School, aged 13 to 18 years old, toured the facilities with event centre staff and representatives from Sport Canterbury. Using the Youth Relevant Design Check Card and Youth Friendly Spaces Audit, the students assessed the space on its safety, appeal, accessibility, resourcing, and youth-friendliness.
The event centre scored well on location, accessibility, safety and atmosphere but it was thought there was more to do in some areas, particularly the cleanliness of the court surface and the cost to use the courts.
The youth auditors came up with a suggested cost of $5 per session and the audit report came before Council on 16 December 2025. Council agreed that as no additional staff or resources would be required, a $2 per head per hour fee would encourage as much participation as possible.
Other requests and feedback from the audit have been gratefully received and have cemented some ideas and plans that were already in place as well as presenting new possibilities. Some changes that will go ahead include the installation of additional outdoor lighting, more regular cleaning of courts, outdoor seating options and the provision of an indoor area for snacks and drinks.
Suggestions such as an outdoor basketball hoop are possible but take longer to consider.
Overall, the audit was an enjoyable and productive experience for everyone providing valuable insight and affirmation. You can read the full report at waimatedc.govt.nz/youthaudit
