Who can use the stadium?
Both Matamata College and the wider community can use the stadium. Open Country Community Stadium is a shared facility, but there will be specific times scheduled for college use and community use, which are still being finalised.
What are the operating hours?
The main stadium will be open daily from 6am to 10pm, with setup and pack-down time available from 5.30am to 10.30pm. Up to five events per year may run until 11pm with prior approval.
What types of activities can the courts be used for?
Indoor sports like basketball, futsal, netball, volleyball, badminton, and pickleball. Occasional usage for events or performances may also be possible.
Can the stadium be used for private or commercial events?
Yes, but these must align with the stadium’s intended use and be booked through MPDC. Events must not interfere with school activities, or break any operational, health and safety, or resource consent conditions.
Is there a maximum number of people allowed in the stadium?
Yes. Day-to-day use should typically be under 200 people. Larger events (up to 400 people) are allowed up to six times per year.
Are there showers and changing rooms?
Yes, there are showers and changing rooms available.
What kind of footwear is required?
Only non-marking sports shoes are allowed on the courts to protect the flooring.
Does the multi-purpose room have air-conditioning?
Yes there will be air conditioning.
Does the multi-purpose room have audio-visual equipment?
Yes, it will have a portable TV that can be connected to with a laptop.
Is there Wi-Fi or a phone on site?
Yes, Wi-Fi will be available via MPDC’s network available to all users.
There are no phones available on site, so please bring your own mobile phone.
Is there parking available?
Yes. There will are 94 on-site parks (including accessible and short-stay spaces), plus overflow parking.
Is the stadium wheelchair accessible?
Yes, there are accessible parking spaces and facilities. Please note that the mezzanine is only accessible by stairs.
How do I book the stadium?
Bookings are managed by MPDC through booking agent SpacetoCo. Your booking is confirmed once the booking is approved, terms are accepted and payment is made.
Please note this is still being set up - but you can use the Expressions of Interest form above in the meantime.
When can I start making bookings?
We are starting to take expressions of interest now– see details above. Please note that there is a Prioritisation of Use Policy we need to follow, and we can't guarantee any bookings at this stage. Official bookings will be taken next year.
What if I need help during my booking?
MPDC staff may be present during operating hours, or you can call them on 0800 746 467.
Does it cost to book the stadium?
Yes, charges apply and are consistent between all events and venues throughout the district. Rates will be added to mpdc.nz/feesandcharges when approved.
What happens if there is a scheduling conflict?
If two or more groups request the same time slot, the MPDC Events and Venues Manager will use the Prioritisation of Use Policy to assess the situation based on event significance, participant numbers, community relevance, and alignment with strategic objectives. Complex conflicts may be escalated to senior management or the Board of Trustees or the property sharing committee.
How do we get into the building once we’ve booked?
You will be given a pin code that works for the duration of your booking.
How far in advance do I need to book?
We recommend getting in as early as possible, so that we have time to go through the user information with you. For urgent bookings (within 48 hours) please call 0800 746 467 (8am-4.30pm, Mon-Fri) after submitting your request on SpacetoCo.
Please note - we are currently only taking Expressions of Interest, see form above. Official bookings will start next year.
Do I need to pay a bond?
A bond may be required for certain bookings to cover potential damage, additional cleaning, or breaches of hire conditions.
Can I bring my own sports equipment?
Yes, but you must store it safely and only use it within your booked area.
Can I use sports equipment stored at the stadium?
Some shared equipment will be available. Use of college-owned gear requires pre-approval.
Do I need to include setup and pack-down time in my booking?
Yes. Make sure your booking includes time for setup and pack-down. All sports gear must be packed away tidily after use.
Can I host a private function or party here?
Are there any noise restrictions?
Yes. No amplified music is allowed, and noise must stay within the following levels:
- Daytime (7am-7pm): 50dB LAeq
- Evening (7-10pm): 45 dB LAeq
- Night-time (all other times): 40 dB LAFMAX 65dB
If you are worried about these noise limits, please contact MPDC before making a booking.
Can I bring in food, alcohol, cigarettes or vapes?
Food is allowed depending on the event type - check with MPDC. Alcohol may be permitted with the correct license, outside of school hours. No smoking or vaping is allowed anywhere on the premises.
Who is responsible for cleaning and maintenance?
All users are expected to help keep the facility clean. MPDC and Matamata College will share the responsibility of regular cleaning and maintenance. If extra cleaning is required due to negligence, the responsible party will be charged.
What happens if I damage something or break the rules?
You will be charged for any damage, cleaning, or rule breaches. A three-strike policy applies for repeated rule violations.
What is the three-strike policy for rule breaches?
For breaches of terms and conditions, the first two offences receive verbal warnings. The third offence results in a written warning, removal from the facility, cancellation of future bookings, and a 12-month ban from booking council facilities.
What are my health and safety responsibilities?
All users must comply with the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015. A health and safety plan, induction, and regular checks are required. The Emergency Action Plan and Site Safety Map must be followed. Additional Matamata College health and safety requirements may also be required.
What are my insurance requirements?
Hirers must arrange their own insurance for events and property. MPDC is the policy holder for the stadium, with Matamata College noted as an interested party.
What about accidents or hazards?
All accidents, hazards or incidents must be reported to MPDC by phoning 0800 746 467 or visiting mpdc.nz/incident - there will be site safety maps with QR codes up around the stadium. If an incident occurs during a school booking, Matamata College must be notified immediately.
What happens in an emergency?
Call 111 and follow the Emergency Action Plan available on-site. A designated warden must ensure safe evacuation and meet emergency services at the assembly point.