First published on 18 December 2026 on Newsline

Parakiore is officially the new home of the Canterbury Rams and Mainland Pouākai basketball teams.

The teams today announced their shift from Cowles Stadium to the brand-new Parakiore Recreation and Sport Centre on Moorhouse Ave in central Christchurch.

“Not only will Parakiore host Rams and Pouākai games, it will also become our home base as a club, which will greatly benefit Canterbury’s emerging players,” said Caleb Harrison, Canterbury Rams and Mainland Pouākai General Manager.

To mark their big move, the Canterbury Rams are hosting a Grand Opening community event on 15 March, 11am – 12pm. 

“Fans will get the chance to experience the new show court, meet the team, and explore Parakiore,” says Mr Harrison. 

Christchurch City Council Head of Recreation, Sport and Events Nigel Cox says the move reflects the popularity of basketball in recent years.

“Basketball is thriving across the country and it’s great to be able to offer top quality facilities in the heart of Christchurch for local athletes of all levels,” says Mr Cox.

According to Sport Canterbury, the numbers playing basketball in the Canterbury region have been trending up since 2020, with a 34% increase in memberships over the past five years. 

Parakiore’s six community basketball courts are regularly booked out.

“4,000 people have come in to play basketball since we opened in December. Basketball New Zealand is also hosting the Foot Locker U16 National championships at Parakiore in July,” says Mr Cox

“We’re thrilled to welcome the Canterbury Rams and Mainland Pouākai. Having the teams training and playing their home games here will be an inspiration for the next generation of players.”

The Rams’ 2026 season begins on 19 April when they host the Wellington Saints for the first professional basketball game at Parakiore. The Mainland Pouākai’s season will start later in the year.

“Moving into the new venue is an exciting time for the Rams and basketball in Canterbury,” said Taylor Britt, Canterbury Rams Player. 

“Having a facility that can hold more fans and help with the participation and growth in the basketball community on the weekends is exactly what we needed and I’m looking forward to having our first home game packed out and playing in front of even more Rams fans.” 

Parakiore Recreation and Sport Centre features a show court with grandstand seating for around 2,500 fans, as well as VIP hospitality courtside seating and a VIP lounge.

The centre has welcomed over 200,000 visitors since it opened on 17 December.

Canterbury Rams Season Memberships and Mainland Pouākai Season Memberships will become available on 15 March.

Fans can gain early access by signing up to the Canterbury Rams Early Bird Waitlist and Mainland Pouākai Early Bird Waitlist.