The South Otago district of Clutha is an area of great natural beauty. The Clutha District Council wants locals to make the most of its outdoors but recognises that it also needs to provide indoor options. To ensure the healthy future of the district, the council wants to encourage residents to increase their physical activity. One way to do this is to ensure they have access to recreational facilities in the area.
The council used 2006 Census information to identify changes in the population over time, and therefore the need for present and future community facilities. They found that the median age of residents in the Clutha District is 39 years, compared with New Zealand's median of 36 years. Despite the ageing population, they also found a higher than average proportion of young people under the age of 15.
These statistics, alongside a very active community driven consultation, confirmed that plans for a recreation centre should go ahead. Balclutha, the largest community in Clutha, has been chosen as the site for the new centre. It will boast multipurpose covered netball courts and squash courts to meet the needs of the younger generation.
Swimming, walking and aqua-jogging are low-impact activities well suited to older generations. Swimming pools have become a point of discussion in the district and $3 million has also been approved for a footpath strategy to improve walking options.