UniRec- More Than Just a Gym

Have you ever wondered if there is a place where you can swim, gym and play recreational sports all in one location? Well, you’re in luck because the UniRec is the place to be!

The UniRec was established in 1964,  built inside of the University of Waikato campus in Hillcrest, Kirikiriroa (Hamilton). The UniRec is not just a gym facility for the university, as it is enjoyed by many students and other members of the public, with activities suitable for all ages.

My favourite part of the UniRec is how it does it all and it’s never quiet, with members working out in the “move room” or upstairs in the weights room. You are greeted by the friendly staff and people bouncing balls, or jumping around in the indoor court area playing basketball, volleyball and other indoor sports.

“I enjoy playing basketball with my mates, and in Hamilton there are not a lot of available spaces for indoor basketball, so we can always rely on the UniRec”.

Ben Grigsby taking the court at the UniRec (Photo by Cody Love)

Ben Grigsby, a local at the UniRec, enjoys the variety of equipment available from the basketball courts to the rowing and bike machines. Ben says he enjoys the basketball court the most out of all the equipment available.

Ben has been playing basketball in the Waikato region since the age of 10 and says it’s “almost like a basketball reunion, when we play basketball at the UniRec” as he sees familiar faces he’s competed with for many years. 

If basketball is not your thing, then maybe badminton, volleyball or futsal tickle your fancy. The UniRec accommodates for every sport and everyone. Ben says, he’s seen “a variety of people from young to old and they are all enjoying it together”. The space may be old but still  shines from other gyms because of its variety of equipment, available at such a low cost.

A range of sports competitions are organised via the UniRec, such as, indoor netball, volleyball and basketball. These sports can be played socially with no prior experience needed. These organised sports have been made to connect and let students have fun with others and be active on a weekly basis. The community contribution to this is massive, with many different people turning up and playing. These sports wouldn’t be possible without this facility and the community and equipment available.

Not only is the UniRec a place for social sport, but also a place to work out. With the gym being more popular with the youth, this place is a hidden gem for students and other members of the public in the Hamilton region . 

For more information about the UniRec, Click here to find out more information