News

Waimakariri District Council has officially opened the new Pegasus Community Centre, delivering the finished project ahead of schedule and under budget.

Mayor, Dan Gordon said the new Pegasus Community Centre has been a community-led project.

“It began when Rhonda Mather, Ronel Stephens and Roger Rule approached the Council on behalf of the Pegasus Residents Group because they could see Pegasus needed a dedicated place where people could come together,” the Mayor said.

Council purchased the site back in July 2024 following strong community support for the lakeside location.

“Since then, a great deal of work has gone into the design and ensuring this venue is not only a stunning modern facility but is versatile to accommodate a wide range of users,” Mayor Gordon said.

“It is a grand design that befits its beautiful setting but is also functional and not extravagant.

“The Pegasus Community Centre steering group which had representatives from the community, including the Pegasus Residents’ Group and elected members, ensured the community’s voice was always at the heart of the project.

“I want to acknowledge all members past and present, including the Chair of the Steering Group, Councillor Shona Powell, for the exceptional job they have done. ”

Cr Powell also acknowledged the many people who contributed to the project over the years.

“I would acknowledge the many hands that have played a part in getting us here today,” said Cr Powell.

“As we look to the future, I know this facility will go onto see many laughs, many celebrations and many achievement, big and small.”

Renowned Ignite Architects was awarded the design contract for the centre and alongside South Island owned and operated firm, Amalgamated Builders, delivered the 400m2 multi-use, dynamic venue and associated carparking and landscaping.

The centre boasts a main function room that can be partitioned into two sections with capacity for 66 and 110 seats respectively or combined into one large function space.

The entry opens into a spacious reception area complete with a book cave. To the right, an open-plan kitchen which opens to the foyer area and small meeting room as well as a formal boardroom with a kitchenette.

The building is completed with toilet facilities and a 32-car parking lot adjacent to the centre ensures easy accessibility, including two accessible parking spaces and ten cycle parks.

“We’ve been in regular consultation with the community about their hopes for the Centre since before the land was acquired and we know they’re very excited to ‘move in’,” Mayor Gordon says.

“Many small details from the previous community centre have been relocated including the beloved Book Cave and the photo wall – we wanted to keep the things that are special to this community.”

Bookings will open to the public via the Council’s website from Monday 12 October.