Councillor's Comment - Councillor Campbell Rollo

Saxton Field: One of a Kind.

Saxton Field truly is one of a kind. From humble and slightly unconventional beginnings as a farm and then Nelson’s first airport in the 1930s, Saxton Field has grown into one of New Zealand’s most significant multiuse sporting and community spaces.

Fast forward to today and Saxton Field now caters to more than 20 sporting codes, from grassroots participation to elite competition. What also makes Saxton Field unique is its governance. It is rare in New Zealand for two councils to jointly own, manage, and work day-to-day on the same reserve. Yet this collaboration between Nelson City Council and Tasman District Council is something our region can genuinely celebrate. It reflects a shared commitment to community, sport, and long-term vision.

I am privileged to step into the role of Chairperson of the Joint Saxton Field Committee. In doing so, I want to acknowledge the service of past Chair Derek Shaw, whose leadership and dedication are reflected in the many positives we see across the facility today. His work helped strengthen not only the infrastructure at Saxton, but also the strong relationship between the two councils that continues to benefit our wider community.

Saxton Field has recently been alive with activity and excitement. Huge crowds turned out to cheer on international and first-class cricketers, showcasing Saxton on the national stage. More recently, almost 1000 young people took part in the South Island Colgate Games, filling the fields with energy, colour, and future sporting potential. Throughout the week, more than 100 teams participate in summer football, thanks to the ongoing work of Nelson Suburbs and the many volunteers who make community sport possible.

Development at Saxton Field does not stand still. Planning is well underway for a new inclusive playspace at the southern end of the reserve, designed to ensure children of all abilities can enjoy the space. Inside the stadium, the floor is in the process of being recoated ahead of another busy year for our indoor sporting codes.

Looking ahead, Council currently holds a lease with Radio New Zealand for 7ha of grass reserve, and we continue to actively progress thinking around its future development. Our first committee meeting is early February where we look forward to enhancing our community venue.