Support for Manawatu Council's Community Hub.

With a grant of $22,790, New Zealand Community Trust (NZCT) has again partnered with the Manawatu District Council (MDC), to fund enduring community infrastructure. The latest NZCT grant is tagged to a new basketball hoop, backboard, and half court to be located at the new Community Hub Library in Feilding. This initiative aligns with the efforts of the MDC to provide alternative pathways for youth to stay engaged, keep fit, and avoid boredom, ultimately contributing to the reduction of youth crime in the area.

Joey Mckechnie, Manawatū District Council’s Youth Engagement Coordinator, highlighted, "Having centralised activities like a basketball court outside the Hub will attract and welcome youth into the planned facilities inside."

Janine Hawthorn, Community Wellbeing Manager, expressed, "The support of NZCT funding affirms Council’s vision and extensive investment towards the redevelopment of the Manawatū Community Hub Libraries. The basketball equipment and court are a fantastic complement to the work being done within the redevelopment of the building."

The revamped Manawatū Community Hub Library will serve as a central hub in the heart of Feilding, catering to the needs of the wider community. With internal spaces for meetings, a café, and a designated place for youth. This addition will complete the recreational space, encouraging active lifestyles alongside the neighbouring skatepark, aquatic centre, and playground.

NZCT’s GM Grants, Marketing and Communications, Ben Hodges adds “We are proud to further contribute to Council’s fantastic Makino Park and library precinct. NZCT has previously invested $550k across the refurbishment of the pool, the construction of the skatepark and the new library building. We’re delighted our responsible gaming fundraising partnerships with the Empire Hotel, Drovers Bar and Kitchen, and the Feilding Hotel continues to make such a positive contribution to the community. "