New basketball court for Sunnynook

Thanks to the support and drive from numerous local businesses, council and the police, Sunnynook in North Shore City has become one of the latest places to play 3 on 3 basketball.

After identifying an urgent need for a local court, Community Constable Penny Rusbatch obtained support from local businesses and in particular Jonmer Projects, which owns the Sunnynook Shopping Centre.

Constable Rusbatch involved local agencies and organisations, including the North Shore City Council, and worked closely with the city's Takapuna Community Board and parks department.

The council jointly funded the construction with Jonmer Projects, who sponsored the basketball facility, contributing $5000 to the total cost.

Adjacent to the Sunnynook Shopping Centre, the new facility at 138 Sunnynook Rd is now used by young local people as a 3 on 3 basketball court with associated safety fencing. Bookings are handled on a first come, first served basis.

The council's community services and parks committee chairperson, Margaret Miles, says the project is the result of the community working closely together to provide a much-needed facility, and she is grateful to sponsors and organisers for their hard work.

"It's great to see local companies working so well with their communities and funding such projects - it's certainly something we would like to encourage, " Councillor Miles says.

Takapuna Community Board deputy chairperson, Jan O'Connor, says the facility is great for Sunnynook.

"Basketball is on a high in New Zealand right now with the Tall Blacks excelling on the world court, and the Breakers about to tip off in the ANBL.

"Mighty oaks from little acorns grow, and our 3 on 3 courts may well provide the venue for future Sean Marks and Dillon Bouchers to show their skills," Ms O'Connor says.

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