Auckland Rugby League Calls for Better Support for Papatoetoe Players: Urgent Need for Facilities and Field Renovation

The Auckland Rugby League (ARL) is making a passionate plea to the local board of the Auckland Council to provide better support for the Papatoetoe players. The club development officer, Mark Craig, highlighted the urgent need for improved facilities, especially for the safety and comfort of female players within the Papatoetoe Panthers.

Carla Makiha, the chairperson of the Papatoetoe Panthers, emphasized the importance of autonomy for female players at the club, stating that it is essential for them to have access to proper changing facilities. Currently, players are forced to change in public toilets or endure muddy conditions due to the lack of adequate changing rooms.

The club, predominantly made up of Pacific and Māori players, is based at Kohuora Park in Papatoetoe, which Craig described as being in “desperate need of renovation.” He expressed concern over the poor quality of the fields, stating that they are among the worst in the city.

One of the major issues highlighted by Craig was the inadequate lighting at the park, which severely impacts the ability of international teams to train competitively. He stressed the importance of updating the lighting and changing rooms to enhance the overall experience for players.

Despite the challenges faced by the club, Craig remains optimistic about the potential for Auckland to become a leading league city. He expressed a willingness to collaborate with any organization that can help improve player facilities and ensure a positive environment for all members.

The local board has acknowledged the concerns raised by ARL and has committed to addressing the issues, including funding cuts and the need for improved facilities. With the support of the community and local government, the Papatoetoe Panthers are hopeful for a brighter future with enhanced facilities and opportunities for all players.