New Roof raises tennis club's game

Hāwera’s 118-year-old Lawn Tennis and Squash Club is a one-of-a-kind in South Taranaki. 

With seven grass tennis courts, two all-weather courts and indoor squash facilities, it provides a place for people to connect and enjoy playing tennis and squash, both socially and competitively. 

“The tennis club was established in 1906 and squash courts added in 1969. We’re still operating from the original site and are one of the oldest sporting clubs in South Taranaki. 

“These are some of the few genuine grass courts left in New Zealand. It’s a fabulous facility, but it takes time, effort and funding to keep it going,” said Maree Tong, project funding coordinator. 

“It’s hard for people to commit their time these days, so we employ a grounds person to care for the lawns and keep them weed free, as well as a cleaner for the clubrooms.” 

The Hāwera courts and clubrooms are a busy, well-used facility. 

“Around 100 people are subscription members, and another 100 or so use the club socially or through school and community groups. We also host interclub teams and tournaments and provide professional coaching and business house competitions,” said Maree.

However, a leaking roof was damaging the club rooms internally, making them damp and cold. 

“We needed to get that fixed if we wanted to provide a great facility for our members, and to keep the bar going, as that’s an essential part of our income.” 

Toi Foundation funding of $20k helped the Hāwera Lawn Tennis and Squash club reroof the damaged portion of their clubrooms.

“The club is about more than just playing sports. It’s about having a place to meet and talk with like-minded people and to connect over sport, but also over life and all those challenges. 

“Now, once again, we have a warm, dry place where members and their extended families can congregate and enjoy themselves.”