Basketball half court is double the fun
Hurunui District District Council media release: 27th October 2025
Getting good at slam dunks will be an option for Amberley locals this summer, thanks to a basketball half court that has recently opened at Amberley Domain.
![From left to right: Sesharna Murphy, Jakob Eder, Kimberley Spencer, Jakobe Luscombe, Selah Hingston and Ella Amyes.]()
Kimberley Spencer from Hurunui District Council’s Youth Team said it’s awesome to see this new half court come to life, providing a space for Hurunui District’s youth to connect, be active, and spend time together.
She added that it’s a great compliment to the Domain’s adjacent playground and skating area.
“Having something like this right here in the heart of the community makes a real difference for our young people,” she said.
A grant received from The Lion's Foundation for $6,000 paid for the backboard, hoop and stand, while funding the remainder of the project was made available from Amberley Township Development Contributions. The total cost was $26,356.00.
Jo Hassall, Chair of the South Ward Committee said with 90 percent of the cost being paid for by Development Contributions and the remaining 10 percent being generously covered by The Lions Foundation, this facility has not cost the ratepayer a cent.
As a keen basketball player when she was younger and with children who enjoyed the benefits of a basketball hoop at home, Hassall has also seen value in the basketball half court at Coppard Reserve at Leithfield Village, well used by grandparents, parents, caregivers and youth of all ages.
Hassall has a reputation for making things happen and is often surrounded by new ideas. However, she’s the first to acknowledge that there are processes to follow, and bringing this new facility to life at Amberley Domain has been anything but quick.
“When you are passionate about getting something achieved, you keep at it.”
Hassall wanted to thank Council staff for their assistance with the project, particularly Vanessa Nelmes, Community Development Facilitator, for the help with the funding application, and Gary Harris, Project Manager, especially for his support and help with getting the hoop installed.
“They were great to deal with.”
Mayor Marie Black has full support for facilities that expand activity options for the whole community. She said there is nothing more pleasing than to see young people out in the fresh air and having fun. This activity can be undertaken with a group of friends or as a lone activity.
“It’s about providing choice, and it doesn’t have to be grandiose. Basic fun like this can be accessible to so many, and provide hours of fun and connection,” said Mayor Black.