12 July 2005

City welcomes $1 million sports and recreation funding

Auckland City Council is delighted to receive $1,050,000 funding from Sport and Recreation New Zealand (SPARC) to increase physical activity levels within Auckland’s community.

The funding will be spread over three years and dedicated to the AK@ctive initiative. Ak@ctive is a collaborative partnership between the council, SPARC, Sport Auckland and ProCare Network — a primary health organisation.

Ak@ctive aims to increase the physical activity levels of Auckland city residents through the development of a physical activity network that enhances existing programmes and activities. It will also create new and innovative physical activity opportunities focused in and around council facilities and promote the benefits of physical activity.

Chairperson of Auckland City’s Arts, Culture and Recreation Committee, Councillor Penny Sefuiva welcomes the funding and this exciting opportunity to change the trend of declining physical activity levels, especially for Auckland’s youth.

“Auckland city has an abundance of recreation and sporting opportunities, but our participation in physical activity is declining and health issues are rising. The only way communities can benefit is if we combine our efforts and join forces,” she says.

Auckland City currently invests a significant amount into sports and recreation facilities including parks, walkways, recreation centres and swimming pools. A key focus of the project will be to encourage better use of these facilities and to further improve collaboration and coordination between primary health organisations and agencies promoting physical activity in Auckland.

A comprehensive communication and marketing strategy will support the AK@ctive project to encourage communities to get involved.

ENDS

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