Motueka Cricket Club is preparing for a strong season ahead after receiving a $12,254 grant from New Zealand Community Trust (NZCT).
The funding will go towards new uniforms for junior players and updating equipment, including pitch covers, helping protect playing surfaces and ensure players of all ages have what they need to take the field.
Club president and chairman, Corey Pascoe, says the club continues to grow across both junior and senior grades.
“Motueka Cricket Club offers opportunities for all ages to play cricket. Last season, we fielded one senior side, two junior teams, and two President’s Grade sides, plus a Friday night junior programme for younger kids, and we hope to put out more teams come next season.
“This generous grant means we now have enough equipment for everyone to get out onto the pitch and play with pride.”
Junior player Riley Pascoe says the new kits are something young players are already excited about.
“The new junior kits are going to be so cool, and I can wear it into town.”
NZCT general manager of grants, marketing and communications, Ben Hodges, says the funding reflects the value of grassroots sport in Motueka.
“There’s nothing better than seeing Memorial Park bustling with junior cricketers on a Saturday morning, and looking the part.
“This is another example of how our responsible gambling fundraising partnership with the Motueka Hotel is delivering fantastic community outcomes in Motueka.”
The Motueka Cricket Club is the oldest surviving cricket club in New Zealand, having served the community since 1857 and continuing to provide opportunities for people of all ages to play and enjoy the game.
NZCT is one of the country’s largest gaming societies. In the 2024/25 financial year, it awarded more than $38 million in grants to community initiatives, including sport, rescue services, youth development, the arts and cultural activities.
