Spaces & Places

Across the Waitaha Canterbury region, people of all ages enjoy numerous benefits from participating in sport and physical activities. However, they depend on having suitable spaces and places in their communities to stay active.

Our Approach

The Our Places Plan – A Regional approach to Spaces and Places planning in Waitaha and Te Tai Poutini 2026 reflects a unified approach to planning across the full Sport Canterbury region, encompassing the territorial boundaries of Ashburton, Selwyn, Christchurch, Waimakariri, Hurunui, Waimate, Timaru, Mackenzie, Grey and Westland districts.

The plan identifies key regional priorities, highlighting both emerging issues and future opportunities to strengthen the network of spaces and places that support sport, active recreation, and physical activity. It also reinforces the importance of recently completed and confirmed facility developments, recognising their role as critical components of the region’s evolving infrastructure.

Grounded in the voices of regional stakeholders, the plan captures shared aspirations, local insights, and evolving priorities. For many, the process provided a valuable opportunity to reassess and refine their strategic direction within a broader regional context.

Beyond the sport sector, Our Places is intended to guide councils, funders, and partners in informed decision-making and prioritisation, supporting a more coordinated, efficient, and impactful approach to future investment across the region.