Work starts on $1.3 million hockey turf replacement at Aorangi Park

Work has started on a $1.3 million project to replace the hockey turf at Aorangi Park. The old wetdressed turf, installed in the 1990s, was removed due to safety concerns as it had become slippery and hazardous for players. The South Canterbury Hockey Turf Trust has raised most of the funds needed, with only $30,000 left to collect. Community support has been strong, and the upgraded facility will be named the Trust Aoraki Hockey Centre. Once completed, Timaru will have two international-standard water turfs and will host the U18 national men’s hockey championships in July 2025. The project includes new irrigation, a shock pad, and improved facilities.