As part of our ongoing commitment to providing top-notch facilities for our students and the wider community, we are resurfacing our hockey turf in the coming months.

The decision is driven by our dedication to offering a safe and optimal playing surface for our talented hockey players. Over time, natural wear and tear have taken a toll on the current turf, making this upgrade necessary to maintain the quality of our sports facility.

The plans are to install a dedicated water-type hockey turf with the associated irrigation system and upgraded LED lighting, allowing first-class games to be played. The new turf will enhance the performance and gameplay experience for our students and visiting teams, ensuring a safe and even playing surface and reducing the risk of injuries.

Demolition of the existing turf will commence as soon as possible but is weather-dependent. The tennis courts will move to the new netball courts at the Martin Street entrance.

The current construction programme indicates that all aspects of the project should reach practical completion by late February 2024 if all proceeds according to plan.

A formal construction site establishment by the primary contractor is expected around 6 November 2023.

Additional communication will follow regarding health and safety plans, traffic plans, etc.

We encourage all members of our school community to get involved and support this exciting project. If you have any ideas or suggestions or would like to contribute financially, please reach out to the property manager, Vince Maree vincem@wdsg.school.nz or the Principal, principal@wdsg.school.nz

We will keep you updated on the progress of the resurfacing project through DioNews and social media.

As a result of the resurfacing, we will be lifting the current turf and offering this to members of our school community. These will be available in 5 to 10-metre lengths. Eight full-sized, marked tennis courts could be cut out of the turf intact. We will also have six used, metal-framed tennis nets to give away. If you want to secure any of these items, please get in touch with our property manager, Vince Maree vincem@wdsg.school.nz

We can't wait to unveil our newly resurfaced hockey turf and see our students excel on this upgraded playing surface.