Cooks Gardens track resurfacing to enhance premier sporting facility

Published on 13 November 2024

Whanganui District Council is excited to announce that the resurfacing of the athletics track to reinstate its international certification will begin on Monday, 18 November 2024.

The project has been budgeted in the Long-Term Plan 2024-2034 and is expected to be complete by the end of this year.

The athletics track currently holds a Worlds Athletics Class 2 Certification that expired in March 2024. Due to recent changes in World Athletics certification rules, tracks older than 12 years will no longer be eligible for extensions.

The new rubber surface (over the existing asphalt base) will not only restore the track's certification status but also will allow national athletics events, such as the renowned Cooks Classic, to be held on the track and for records to be validated. The track was last resurfaced in 2012.

Council general manager, community property and places, Sarah O’Hagan, says these events play a vital role in nurturing local talent and fostering participation across all levels of competition.

“Cooks Gardens has long been a cornerstone of Whanganui's sporting heritage and the resurfacing of the track will enable the facility to continue hosting elite sporting events. This upgrade is set to enhance the region's premier sporting facility,” Sarah O’Hagan says.

“This important development allows Whanganui to leverage its rich sporting history to attract visitors and promote community engagement.”

While the resurfacing is underway, Cooks Gardens will temporarily close to activities inside the track. However, it is anticipated bookings for the facility will reopen by the start of 2025 with only a six-week closure period.

Council capital works manager Rosemary Fletcher says the council appreciates community understanding and patience during this significant work.

“We look forward to welcoming everyone back to a refreshed Cooks Gardens, ready to support athletes and sporting events in the New Year,” Rosemary Fletcher says.

The Cooks Gardens Events Centre and the Velodrome will remain open during the resurfacing.

Please check out the project page on the council website for more information and updates.