106 | Stunning new look for hockey ground In field hockey, blue turf is becoming the preferred surface colour, providing a much better contrast with the ball, which makes it easier for players and viewers to track the ball during play. Dunedin City Council: Logan Park Hockey Project Anne Boswell COMMUNITY High-quality hockey games could soon become a staple in Dunedin, thanks to the much-anticipated resurfacing of the Logan Park hockey facility. With significant investment and strategic planning, the project is set to enhance the quality of play and attract top-tier tournaments to the region. The Otago Hockey Association originally owned the two hockey turfs, while the Dunedin City Council (DCC) owned the land. The council provided funding to assist the Hockey Association in constructing the turfs in 2009 and 2012. However, after more than a decade of use, the surfaces have reached the end of their lifespan and require replacement. Recognising the need for long-term sustainability, the DCC opted for the most cost-effective solution: taking ownership of the turfs, replacing them, and hiring them back to the Otago Hockey Association. With a budget of $1 million allocated for the project, global sports surface specialist Polytan was selected as the successful tender. Known for its work on the Paris 2024 Olympics hockey turfs and locally (in 2019 they installed the two artificial multi-use turfs at Logan Park), the company brings extensive experience and credibility to the project. One of the most noticeable changes will be the colour of the turf, transitioning from green to blue. In field hockey, blue turf is becoming the preferred surface colour, providing a much better contrast with the ball, which makes it easier for players and viewers to track the ball during play. “As part of the project we adjusted one of the internal fence boundaries to address a run-off issue. Previously, the existing layout did not provide enough run-off space, preventing it from hosting high-level competitions. However, civil works, including repositioning the fencing, has now ensured the facility meets the necessary specifications,” Dunedin City Council project manager Vicci Holdsworth says. “It will be great for local players to have this level of facility available to them, and it will help ensure we can host more competitive events. Beyond the turf replacement, we took the opportunity to adjust the fence height and width behind the goals to minimise the risk of balls escaping. The fencing has been extended by one metre in height and widened by three metres at the ends.” The project’s benefits extend beyond hockey enthusiasts. “It will be a high-quality facility, and we hope that will encourage more professional and amateur players from around the city and beyond to use it,” Vicci says. “This enhancement should also attract more visitors, further supporting Dunedin’s reputation for sporting events.” Work is progressing well; Turf Two was scheduled for completion by February 26, with Turf One by March 10—just in time for the winter season. A key highlight of the project is its strong focus on sustainability. “We are using a new product called Polygrass GT0, which is an 82% fibre-based, climate-neutral product. It uses 50% less water than standard turf,” Vicci says. Additionally, the underlay incorporates recycled tyres, with a guarantee that it can be repurposed at the end of its lifecycle. “And while we had to dispose of the old shockpad, happily we were able to donate the old turf to the community, with schools and parks benefiting.” Proudly Supporting Dunedin City Council •Civil Works • Sub-divisions • Transport • Demolition • Recycling • Siteworks www.hallbros.co.nz (03) 477 1141
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