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Elmwood Tennis had its first beginnings
some 80 years ago. Just looking at the photos
on the clubhouse wall gives you an idea of the
depth of history.
In 1926 Elmwood
Tennis Club was formed on what has become
prime land in residential Merivale. Originally
nine asphalt courts were laid, and between 1965
and 1973, these were progressively replaced
with porous concrete surfaces.
The first pavilion was replaced
in 1963 with a permanent material two-storey
building, which was extended and refurbished
in 1983, making Elmwood one of the best equipped
tennis facilities in the country.
In about 1984, the club decided
it was time for an upgrade. As their report
stated "In keeping with our reputation
as one of New Zealand's most progressive clubs,
The Elmwood committee has decided that courts
1-6 should be resurfaced in synthetic grass",
with completion due in April 1984.
"Synthetic grass is a hard
wearing surface made from polypropylene. The
tufted fibres are packed with specially graded
sand to create a lawn that looks, plays and
feels like real grass. Some of the significant
benefits to club members will be:
- It is a true all weather
surface. Play can recommence just minutes
after heavy rain. Tennis can be played 52
weeks of the year.
- It is cool underfoot,
even in hot conditions. It provides a safe,
sure footed grip. Tennis balls, shoes and
legs last a lot longer.
- It is a fast surface
with a perfect bounce every time.
- It is low maintenance
and will retain its "new" condition
for many years.
- Synthetic grass is
the court surface of the future both overseas
and in New Zealand.
The 1983 report also described
how "the club presently has a very high
members-to-court ratio. In seeking to improve
this the club has been able to negotiate with
the Heaton School and Education Board to obtain
sufficient land to construct an additional 3
courts in the school grounds adjoining our car
park".
The President commented "With
the development of the new extensions to the
pavilion, the laying of six synthetic grass
tennis courts, the construction of 3 courts
at Heaton School, Elmwood has embarked on one
of its most progressive phases in its 57 years
history. On completion our club will be one
of the finest Tennis Club venues in New Zealand.
Our financial position is sound. Our administration
and organization first class and this present
project will add another notable achievement
to the club's already fine record".
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