General: Roadshows to support community sport
Sunday, Sep 14 2025
Sport Taranaki
It will be a smart move for sport and recreation organisations to attend a series of workshops hosted by the Taranaki Facilities Consortium (TFC) aimed at supporting stronger collaboration in community spaces, sporting leaders say.
TFC Independent Chair Andrew Turner says the roadshows are a chance to be part of an important discussion.
“Our goal is better spaces, smarter investment, and stronger outcomes for the whole region,” he says
“That starts with coming along, being part of the conversation and seeing what could be possible.”
The workshops are open to all community organisations, especially those involved in sport or recreation. Participants will hear from local leaders already working in new ways, and the strengths of a networked, whole-of-life approach to facilities.
Sport Taranaki Spaces and Places Lead Marina Healey says collaboration is key to a sustainable future.
“It’s about how we create this complementary network where everyone can participate in physical activity,” she says.
“Community groups are often facing similar challenges, and the roadshow gives people a chance to compare notes, so you are not feeling alone in this.”
The workshops will feature stories of creative thinking, partnership, and cost-effective approaches to running and maintaining spaces.
It is important to look beyond construction costs and think long term, Healey says.
“Build is only about 30 percent of the cost. Where does the money for operations and maintenance come from? It’s about thinking into the future and how we can sustain that future.”
The TFC supports groups in all stages of planning and decision-making. Healey says not every organisation needs to merge or fully hub, but even small steps toward collaboration can make a big difference.
“There’s a whole spectrum of hubbing that could be considered. For some it might be working from the same building, but it could just start with something simple — I’ve got the gear, you’ve got the volunteers, how can we work together to put on an event?”
For those who have already been involved with the TFC, the benefits are clear.
“Seeking advice from the TFC is an absolute no-brainer,” says Garry Carnachan, Chair of the Kaitake Community Sports Hub.
“When you go to funders and you’ve had the TFC involved, because you know they have run their ruler over it and it’s the right model,then it’s like a gold badge really.”
Janet Fleming from the Rāhotu Community Sports Hub said any organisations looking to adapt would benefit from the TFC process.
“I think any organisations that are looking to grow or make change need to work with the TFC. Every funder sits around that table, so if you want to make an impression, you need to sit around the TFC table.”