Te Rauparaha Arena, Multi-purpose entertainment venue in Porirua, New Zealand
Te Rauparaha Arena is a multi-purpose venue in Porirua housing a large gymnasium, a secondary gymnasium, meeting rooms, a dance studio, and a theater seating about 80 people. The facility serves events ranging from sports competitions and concerts to dance performances and theatrical productions.
Te Rauparaha Arena replaced the Porirua Recreation Centre, which the Porirua City Council took over in 1998 after it could no longer be maintained. The council decided in 2000 to build a larger centre, and construction began in January 2008. The NZ$17.5 million venue opened officially on 21 November 2008.
The Ngāti Toa iwi chose the name to honour Te Rauparaha, one of their most famous leaders. The arena has hosted the Māori Art Market in 2009 and 2011, and it serves as an alternate home venue for the Central Pulse netball team.
Access is available through the main parking area or limited parking spots in Porirua's city center. It is best to arrive early during major events, as spaces can fill up quickly.
The arena is named by the Ngāti Toa iwi after their leader Te Rauparaha. In 2009 it was where the Central Pulse netball team took their first ANZ Championship win, beating the 2008 champions the New South Wales Swifts 53–52. It also hosted the Māori Art Market in 2009 and 2011.
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