Address
57 Riccarton Ave
Christchurch, Ōtautahi, 8011
New Zealand
Postal Address
PO Box 789
Christchurch, 8140
Office Hours
Monday - Friday
8.30am - 5pm
Our Spaces
The Hadlee Pavilion and Sir Richard Hadlee Sports Centre are the two cornerstone buildings that shape the Hagley Oval Precinct
Together these buildings represent the vision and dedication and community spirit that brought Hagley Oval Precinct to life. Each has its own journey – from conception to creation – shaping not only the grounds but also the legacy of cricket in Christchurch.
The main facilities include The Hadlee Pavilion, which overlooks the ground itself and The Sir Richard Hadlee Sports Centre, which is primarily used for indoor trainings. Both facilities are multi purpose built and can be hired out for a variety of private events and functions.
Hadlee Pavilion
The Hadlee Pavilion, officially opened on 15 September 2014, is a landmark achievement born from over a decade of commitment, vision, and community support. It stands as a proud symbol of Canterbury’s cricketing legacy and its enduring spirit in the face of adversity.
In June 2012, the Canterbury Cricket Association unveiled an $18 million proposal to construct a new pavilion and install permanent floodlights at Hagley Oval. The Christchurch City Council supported the plan with the construction of a raised grassy embankment to enhance spectator experience. Following 17 days of public hearings and over 200 submissions, the Environment Court granted resource consent on 13 August 2013, under strict conditions.
With the green light given, the Canterbury Cricket Trust took on the challenge of driving the fundraising and construction effort — all under immense pressure. The Trust had just three months to raise a minimum of $8.5 million and confirm to the ICC Cricket World Cup that funding was secured and a construction contract was in place. Thanks to an outpouring of support from funding bodies, gaming trusts, the Canterbury Earthquake Appeal Trust, and generous private donors, the funding target was not only met — it was exceeded. By the time the Hadlee Pavilion opened in 2014, over $10 million had been raised, allowing the building to open entirely debt-free.
Designed by Trevor Watt of Athfield Architects and built by local firm Southbase Construction in less than ten months, the Pavilion was delivered under challenging post-earthquake conditions. Architecturally, it is a respectful blend of heritage and innovation. Its tent-like roof structure nods to the tradition of great sporting events while its modest height and lightweight materials ensure it complements the park’s natural landscape. The Pavilion has since received several national awards for building, design, and engineering excellence.
Owned by the Canterbury Cricket Trust and located on land leased from the Christchurch City Council, the Hadlee Pavilion became the first anchor project completed in Christchurch’s rebuild — and it signalled the triumphant return of international cricket to the city.
The Pavilion proudly carries the name of the Hadlee family, New Zealand cricketing royalty. Walter Hadlee, a former national captain and chairman of New Zealand Cricket, instilled a passion for the game that lived on through his sons — Barry, Sir Richard, and Dale — all of whom played for New Zealand. Their legacy is etched into the game’s history and honoured through this exceptional facility.
Today, the Hadlee Pavilion is much more than a building. It is a place where cricketing history is honoured, new legends are born, and the community gathers to celebrate the sport that continues to unite Canterbury and inspire generations.
Sir Richard Hadlee Sports Centre - A Legacy Realised
The Sir Richard Hadlee Sports Centre is the final piece in the Hagley Oval Cricket Precinct puzzle — a world-class indoor training and community facility right in the heart of Christchurch. Officially opened in May 2022, the Centre stands as a celebration of grassroots cricket, community collaboration, and the enduring legacy of two of Canterbury’s most respected cricketing figures: Sir Richard Hadlee and Stephen Boock.
The vision for the Centre began with Stephen Boock. Inspired by the idea of restoring the old Hagley Horticultural Hall to its original purpose as a sports centre, Stephen saw an opportunity to create a space where young cricketers could train, grow and dream — just like generations had before them. He shared this vision with Sir Richard Hadlee, and together they set out to make it a reality for the community.
Stephen and Heather Boock generously funded the purchase of the site on behalf of the Canterbury Cricket Trust. The Sir Richard Hadlee Sports Trust provided $800,000 in seed funding to kickstart the project, enabling the Trust to begin an ambitious fundraising campaign. With major contributions from Sir Stephen Tindall, Glenn and Lynne Ritchie, Mark Stewart, and many other donors and funders, the vision came to life — and every supporter is recognised in a lasting and meaningful way.
Pavers leading up to the front doors of the Sports Centre carry the names of those who helped bring the project to fruition. At the main entrance, Sir Richard Hadlee and Stephen Boock are honoured with prominent portraits etched into the glass — a tribute to their leadership and belief in the power of sport to shape lives. Inside, a striking ‘ball wall’ installation proudly lists the names of individuals and organisations who contributed over $5,000 to the Centre.
Designed with the future in mind, the facility features high-quality indoor training lanes, full-length run-ups, gender-neutral changing rooms, a mezzanine viewing area, and flexible community space. It supports cricketers of all ages and levels, from school kids to elite athletes, while also welcoming other sports and groups from across the region.
Sir Richard summed it up best at the official opening: “This is a true honour … a wonderful legacy that will benefit thousands.”
More than a building, the Sir Richard Hadlee Sports Centre is a living tribute to the game — a place where dreams are born, skills are honed, and the spirit of cricket thrives for generations to come.