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  • First published on 5 November 2024 on Newsline

    Pioneer Recreation and Sport Centre will undergo a multi-staged closure so that scheduled maintenance and refurbishment work can be carried out.

    The stadium will close on Monday 9 December and all other parts of the facility will close on Monday 6 January. They will reopen in stages between early February and late February, based on the amount of work being undertaken in each space.

    “The closures have been planned to take place during this period as it is the quietest time of year at Pioneer,” says Nigel Cox, Head of Recreation, Sport and Events at Christchurch City Council.

    “Traditionally it’s a time when many of our regulars are preparing for Christmas or away on holiday. We also have more options available for pool customers during this period, with the summer pools open at Waltham, Jellie Park and Te Hāpua Halswell.”

    Both the Learn to Swim Pool and the main pool hall will be closed for improvement work including new flooring and a new ground source heating system.

    The gym and group fitness studios require earthquake repairs and will also be refurbished with a new gym floor, window replacements, internal reconfigurations, and upgraded equipment connectivity. The ground floor toilets will be upgraded, and accessibility improved.

    The stadium will have a new clean heating system installed, and the existing diesel boiler removed, helping to reduce carbon emissions.

    Spaces are expected to reopen at the following times:

    • Gym, group fitness studios and customer experience – early February
    • Southern Centre, Den, Lookout and Lounge – early February
    • Stadium – mid-February
    • Learn to Swim pool – late February
    • Main pool hall – late February

    Mr Cox thanked the public for their patience while the work is carried out.

    “We know that Pioneer is extremely popular, with thousands of people using it each year. We want to thank everyone affected for their patience as this necessary work is completed. We’re looking forward to welcoming the community back to an updated and improved Pioneer Recreation and Sport Centre from early February onwards.”

    During the closures at Pioneer the closest pools are Waltham (outdoor pool) and Matatiki Hornby Centre (indoor pool), and the closest gym/group fitness is located at Jellie Park.