For immediate release: Wednesday, 27 August
The main field at Rugby Park, Whakatāne will soon light up for evening games and training sessions, thanks to generous funding from Trust Horizon.
The lighting project will extend the usable hours of the facility for matches and training throughout the year, transforming how the facility is used.
"This project demonstrates our commitment to providing quality sporting facilities for our community," said Alexandra Pickles, General Manager Community Experience.
"The improved lighting will benefit not just rugby players but all users of Rugby Park, while addressing some of the congestion issues we currently experience during peak usage times."
Eastern Bay of Plenty Rugby Sub Union has welcomed the development as a major step forward for the facility, which serves numerous teams and community groups throughout the region.
Matt Te Pou, representing the Eastern Bay of Plenty Rugby Sub Union, expressed gratitude for the funding.
"This lighting upgrade is transformational for rugby in our region. It will allow us to host evening games and training sessions, making the sport more accessible to everyone in our community."
"Trust Horizon is thrilled to have been able to offer a $224,092 grant to support the lighting upgrade at Rugby Park," says David Glover, Trust Horizon Chair.
"The new lighting will not only help the community stay more active for longer, but it will do so in a more energy-efficient and sustainable way. This aligns closely with two of the Trust's key priorities; investment in community pride and a low-emissions future."
The installation will feature 16 energy-efficient LED lights mounted on four 20-metre-high poles, providing competition-level lighting that meets requirements for club rugby. The lighting has been designed with the latest technology to ensure compliance with all light spill and pollution regulations, minimising impact on neighbouring properties while maximising field illumination.
The project is part of a suite of functional upgrades planned for the Rex Morpeth Recreation Hub and the lights are expected to be installed between December 2025 and February 2026.
ENDS