Upgrade offers fresh space for sport, study and socialising

Emily Mabbitt, a Student Recreation Assistant at Unipol, is ready for some competition on the new multi-purpose turf.

Turf's up! The new multi-purpose turf area on the Union Lawn is now open for use, providing another outdoor space for tauira and kaimahi to relax - actively or passively.

The upgraded area includes a new artificial turf equipped with a basketball hoop, netball hoop, pickleball net, and volleyball net; an outdoor table tennis table; and new picnic tables, with improved access and connection between the dining hall Auahi Ora and the lawn.

Associate Director Planning and Development Gordon Roy says the project was driven by Otago's goal to "activate campus", as well as enhance student wellbeing, providing space where people can connect and relax outside of classes.

The opening of this area complements the Union upgrade project, which included a new conservatory and outdoor eating area at Auahi Ora.

"We wanted to create a space where students could come together - whether that's for a quick game between classes, or an inviting area to eat, study or catch up in the fresh air," Gordon says.

"The turf - in fact the whole area - is designed to be inclusive, accessible, and really versatile."

Making use of the new tables on the Union Lawn are, from left, third year tauira Emily Mabbitt and second years Brooklyn Rycroft, Tori Russ, Ursula Stenberg and Kaitlyn Murray.

Students and staff are encouraged to make use of the space with either their own gear or by borrowing equipment from the honesty box, located at the entrance to Auahi Ora.

"All we ask is that people return what they use - it's a community space, and we want everyone to be able to enjoy it," Gordon says.

Instructions on how to use the turf, including how to turn on the lights for evening use, can be found on the signboard beside Smithells Gym. The lights operate on a push-button system, making it easy to keep the games going after the sun goes down.

This project is aligned with the University's Pae Tata Strategic Plan to 2030 which envisages vibrant spaces that meet students' needs and contribute to their outstanding experiences at Otago.