In June 2023 Addington locals, the Manuka Rangatahi rōpū spoke to the Waihoro Spreydon-Cashmere-Heathcote Community Board, proposing a basketball half-court for Cornelius O’Connor Reserve.

Five young men – Tane, Donte, Finn, Jerimiah, and Tyrone informed the Board of the desire for a basketball half-court at Cornelius O'Connor Reserve that include the following points:

• Proximity of nearest basketball court.
• Safety issues in getting to closest basketball court, across State Highway.
• The high costs to stay active.
• The benefits it will bring now and in the future.
• A place to make connections and friends.
• Letters of support from seven local organisations.

With Board support, the assistance of Better-Off funding and collaboration with Council Parks unit, one and a half years later the rōpū celebrated the opening of the Corneluis O'Connor Reserve basketball half court.

The official opening was a great success, held on 15 February 2025 and attended by approximately 30 Addington locals. Special guest Taylor Britt, Tall Blacks and Canterbury Rams Captain, spoke in acknowledgement of the rangatahi and their success advocating for the half-court.

Later that day Youth Cultural Development held House of Hoopz Addington, a 3X3 streetball league for 13 to 18 year olds. Nine teams entered the day's hotly fought competition, with the winners playing for the championship in March.

Families enjoyed the day out with free food and drink, live DJ and MC, prizes and giveaways on the day.

Photo credits - Youth Cultural Development