NZCT Backs FIFA Turf Project in Whanganui ⚽

New Zealand Community Trust (NZCT) has awarded a grant of $25,000 to the Wanganui Football Charitable Trust to cover the cost of building the base for artificial turf at their Wembley Park grounds, creating an accessible, all-weather playing surface for football players and the wider community.

The grant supports groundwork required for the FIFA Arena Project, which will see FIFA install the turf, fencing, and rebound boards once the base is complete. Whanganui is one of just six locations in New Zealand selected for the project, providing a significant boost to local sporting infrastructure.

The all-weather surface will improve training conditions for players at all levels while also opening the space to schools and other sports such as netball, basketball, and cricket. The project marks a major step forward in improving access to quality facilities and supporting growing participation in the region.

Mark Benson, Secretary Rivercity Football Club says, “Being given the opportunity to develop a training turf in Whanganui is fantastic! This will get lots of use and provide all sorts of new opportunities for football in Whanganui, from junior levels right through to senior.”

Kylie Campbell, Durie Hill Football Club adds, “It's going to be amazing having a playing surface that will be available all year with all-weather playability. The new turf will benefit many in our football community it's such a great addition to Wembley Park!”

NZCT’s General Manager of Grants, Marketing and Communications Ben Hodges says, “It’s awesome to see a project like this come together. It’s the kind of place kids will head after school, clubs can rely on, and the whole community can get behind. NZCT can fund this community good thanks to the fundraising partnerships we share with Caroline’s Boatshed, the Castlecliff Hotel, Shotz Bar and Stellar Bar via their host responsible gaming lounges.