The redevelopment of the Aorangi Events Centre is one of the most significant community projects in Timaru’s recent history. With a total budget of $24.2 million, this project will deliver a modern, fit-for-purpose facility that meets the sporting, recreational, and event needs of our district for decades to come.

This project will increase opportunities for young people, attract major events, and ensure Timaru has facilities that match the aspirations of our community. While funding is well advanced, we need to raise $2.4 million (10% of project cost) through community and corporate fundraising. The community fundraising campaign will run for 11 months, from February to December 2026, with a clear goal of securing the $2.4 million within that timeframe.

Why We Need to Raise this Money

The redevelopment of the Aorangi Events Centre is a $24.2 million investment in our community’s future. The Timaru District Council has committed the majority of the funding through prudent borrowing, and contributions have already been made by the Legacy Aoraki Stadium Trust. From the very beginning, the council set a target for at least 10% of the project cost to be raised through community fundraising. This reflects a long-standing tradition in South Canterbury. Major facilities like CBay and CPlay, were achieved through a blend of council and community support. The Aoraki Foundation also has a long and proud involvement as the fundraising partner for these projects.

The sporting codes have embraced this challenge, stepping up to lead the charge in raising funds. Their commitment demonstrates not only support for the new events centre itself, but also their dedication to ensuring this facility will serve the wider community for generations to come.

To complete the project, we need to raise a $2.4 million. This fundraising target is about more than money — it’s about community ownership.

By contributing, our community will:

• Reduce the burden on ratepayers by directly sharing in the cost.

• Show visible support, for a once in a generation project.

• Ensure the highest quality outcome, allowing for features like retractable seating, upgraded technology, and improved community spaces.

• Build pride and belonging, knowing this stadium was funded for the community,

• This is a chance for all of us - businesses, clubs, schools and families to leave our mark on a project that will serve South Canterbury for decades to come.

Supporting local, building local

The Aorangi Events Centre redevelopment is being delivered by Thompson Construction and Engineering, a proud South Canterbury company. By awarding this contract locally, we are:

• Keeping investment in our community

• Harnessing proven experience

• Building with pride

• Supporting local jobs & apprenticeships

• To ensure safety, quality & durability

• A facility designed for South Canterbury, built locally.

The new Aorangi Events Centre will feature one of the largest wooden sports floors in New Zealand. This is more than a construction milestone — it reflects a commitment to building once and building right. By designing a facility of this scale, we’re ensuring it is not only fit for today’s needs but also sized for future growth, able to accommodate the increasing demand for basketball, netball, volleyball, futsal, and other indoor sports for decades to come.

Donate now

Every dollar raised supports not only the events centre but also local skills and economic growth right here in South Canterbury.

Levels of giving

We invite businesses, families, and individuals to partner with us in building the future of Aorangi Events Centre. Recognition is tailored to each giving level.

Gold Partner - Tier 1

$50,000 (over 3 years)

Included in this tier:

• Naming rights for one of the eight courts including a decal on the playing floor

• Acknowledgement in media publications

• Invitations to fundraising events and project milestones

• Prominent signage within the stadium

• Permanent name on community wall.

Silver Partner - Tier 2

$30,000 (over 3 years) 

Included in this tier:

• Name recognition inside the stadium

• Acknowledgement in media publications

• Invitations to fundraising events and project milestones

• Signage within the stadium

• Permanent name on community wall.

Bronze Partner - Tier 2

$15,000 (over 3 years) 

Included in this tier:

• Invitations to fundraising events and project milestones

• Permanent name on community wall

Community Wall

Tier 1: $1000
Tier 2: $500
Tier 3: $250

Included in this tier:

• Name permanently displayed on the community wall (individual, family, school, or club).

• Special recognition for schools — the school that raises the most (on a prorated basis) will receive the honour of being the first to use the new facility.

Other opportunities to become involved

These options give families, clubs, and businesses a chance to “own” a piece of the stadium. Donations can be over 3 years. For those wishing to sponsor a specific feature, we offer tangible naming opportunities: 

Changing Rooms 

$5,000 each 
Branding in changing rooms
Branding over 3 years

Function/Event Room

$30,000 each 
Branding over 3 years

Gym/Training Hub 

$30,000 each 
Naming rights in gym branding

Outdoor Landscaping & Seating 

$45,000

If you would like to make a significant contribution to this community project we are also happy to discuss a tailored sponsorship package to suit your needs.