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One of my favourite things to do over summer on the Coast is spending time down at the Ōrewa Beach basketball court.
Earlier this year, when I took a flight to Australia, I was overwhelmed with pride seeing our very own court featured on the Air New Zealand safety video. It brought great joy watching the Ōrewa Beach court take an international stage and our local spot, put on the map for the world to see. However, it is really no surprise Air NZ scouted it out and brought Steven Adams along to hang out for filming. I would argue, there really is no court quite like it anywhere else in the country!
The location alone makes it special. With the beach just steps away, sea breeze rolling in and summer sunsets in the background, it is a tranquil and stunning place to shoot some hoops. Whether you are heading down for a casual shoot-around, a competitive game, or just to soak up the atmosphere, it’s a place to gather, and for many a home for the summer.
But more than the location, what truly makes the Ōrewa Beach basketball court special is the community that gathers there. Basketball has a unique way of bringing people together, across ages, cultures, postcodes, and backgrounds. Everyone is welcome. The ball becomes a bridge to friendship, fun, and a real sense of belonging. You will see kids, teens, adults, locals, and visitors all sharing the same space, united by the love of the game.
We are also well supplied with some seriously talented ballers on the Coast. You can find some quality basketball on display, alongside plenty of laughter and friendly sportsmanship. It’s a good time whether you are playing or just watching from the sidelines.
Looking ahead, what excites me is that there is great opportunity for the court’s continued development. Several years ago, the Airtime Hoops were installed at the Ōrewa Beach basketball court, and since then it has grown into a true community hub. Over the years, there has been plenty of discussion about improving the court surface and supporting its ongoing development, so it can continue to thrive. That’s why it’s important the Ōrewa Beach Reserve Management Plan prioritises and preserves the court’s current location. Any relocation closer to the road raises safety concerns and would take away the unique shoreside experience that makes this place so special.
So this summer, let’s count our blessings. We have some special community spaces and the Ōrewa Beach basketball court is one that has become globally advertised, but is uniquely ours to enjoy. Come join the Coast streetball community. Grab a ball, bring a friend, and get amongst some positive community culture down at court!
