February 14, 2011
Stadium `point of difference’ key to success
The Game On 2012 rebuild project gave Stadium Southland a valuable opportunity to establish an edge over its competitors throughout New Zealand, general manager Nigel Skelt said.
The Southland Indoor Leisure Centre Charitable Trust (SILCCT) has unveiled 3D images of the new venue, which features a more “civic-style” than its predecessor and one roofline instead of eight.
Phase A of the McCulloch Architects concept includes construction of the seven playing courts, while Phase B could involve the revamp of the administration block and café if additional funding can be secured.
Skelt said it was hoped contractors would begin piling work by the end of the month.
“We’re thrilled to be able to now share our vision with the public and it will be even more exciting to watch work begin on site and that first sod being turned,” he said.
Future-proofing the complex was a strong focus for the SILCCT and crucial to securing elite fixtures for Southland in the future.
“We need to create a point of difference from other venues that may have been or are currently being built,” Skelt said.
“Versatility and variety is the key, along with the most modern technology we can embrace.
“NZI Insurance has committed to rebuilding our stadium but our challenge to the community and the funders is to ensure we future proof for the next 25 years as that’s clearly the expectation of the Southland public.”
The SILCCT consulted users and the wider community extensively before finalising the design.
“Seating was highlighted by the public as imperative … a polythene bucket seat simply won’t cut it for comfort so we’re investigating padded options for some areas of the stadium which would be a huge advantage from an entertainment perspective,” Skelt said.
Research into various seating configurations and equipment had revealed many new innovations.
“The biggest surprise to the management and operations team has been the advancement in technology since we first built in 2000 – from curtaining and lighting to the sound system,” Skelt said.
“But we need to embrace it so we can continue to lead the pack.”
