Cross Recreation Centre Calls on Community Support to Secure a Sustainable Future

June 2026

The Cross Recreation Centre is calling on the Clutha District community to help secure the future of one of the district’s most valued community assets.

Since opening in 2011, Cross Recreation Centre has grown into a vital hub for sport, recreation, health, and connection, welcoming almost 100,000 visitors last year. Located on the Riverside Reserve in Balclutha, the Centre is home to a wide range of fitness and health & wellbeing providers, including South Otago Netball Centre, Balclutha Gymnastics Club, Clutha District Hockey, Pro-Fit Balclutha, Habit Health and Sport Clutha.

Operating as a not-for-profit incorporated society governed by a volunteer committee, Cross Recreation Centre is committed to providing accessible and affordable opportunities for people of all ages to stay active and engaged.

Future-focused, but facing funding pressures

While the Centre continues to see strong use and community impact, rising compliance and operating costs and limited financial reserves are placing increasing pressure on its long-term sustainability.

“Cross Recreation Centre is a well-used, highly valued facility that plays a crucial role in our community,” Committee chairperson Simon Cullen said. “However, like many community organisations, we are facing increasing costs and need to strengthen our financial resilience.”

The Committee is also looking to the future, including plans such as a solar energy project aimed at reducing operating costs and improving environmental sustainability. Initiatives like this will help ensure the Centre remains efficient and resilient, but requires upfront investment and community backing.

A shared responsibility

Cross Recreation Centre is not a fully council-funded facility and operates through a mix of user fees, sponsorship/advertising, grants, community support, and Council partnership. The Committee is now seeking broader support to strengthen this model.

The Centre is inviting:

  • Community members to contribute and support its future
  • Local businesses to partner through sponsorship/advertising or donations

“Cross Recreation Centre is more than a building; it’s where our community meets, plays, and supports each other. Its future relies on a shared commitment.”

Join the ‘Friends of the Rec Centre’

To support this effort, Cross Recreation Centre has launched the “Friends of the Rec Centre” programme, offering a structured way for individuals, families, and organisations to contribute through one-off or regular donations.

Funds raised will help rebuild reserves, support day-to-day operations, and enable future initiatives like energy efficiency improvements.

As the Cross Recreation Centre celebrates 15 years of service, the Committee is inviting the community to be part of its next chapter.

“Every contribution helps ensure Cross Reecreation Centre remains strong, accessible, and here for future generations.”

How to support

You can support the Cross Recreation Centre by:

  • Becoming a Friend of the Rec Centre
  • Making a donation
  • Sponsoring/advertising or partnering as a business
  • Supporting events and sharing the message

As a registered charity, Cross Recreation Centre can also offer added value to supporters. You will be able to claim one third of every eligible donation over $5 as a Donation Tax Credit through the Inland Revenue Department.


Simon Cullen
Cross Recreation Centre Committee Chairperson

Phone 027 332 9876
​​​​​​​Email committee@crossrecreationcentre.co.nz