Christchurch City Council is embarking on its biggest recruitment drive to date as it prepares to staff the Parakiore Recreation and Sport Centre, which is set to open later this year.

The council is looking to fill around 200 positions at the 32,000m² facility, which will be the largest of its kind in New Zealand. The centre, located on Moorhouse Avenue, will feature multi-purpose indoor courts, swimming pools, hydroslides, an aquatic sensory space, a gym, movement studios, and group fitness rooms.

Head of Recreation, Sports and Events Nigel Cox said recruitment will begin in late February, starting with team leader positions, with the majority of hiring taking place from June to August.

“We’re looking for great people to help us create an amazing environment at this world-class facility,” Cox said.

The council is hiring for a mix of full-time and part-time roles, covering events, facility management, customer experience, fitness instruction, swimming instruction, lifeguarding, and aquatic sensory staff.

“It’s going to be a vibrant and diverse place to work, with special events and activities happening alongside our regular offerings like swimming lessons and social sports leagues,” Cox said.

Parakiore will also play host to the 2025 Special Olympics National Summer Games in December.

To assist job seekers, the council is holding an information session at Tūranga Library on Wednesday, March 5, from 4pm to 6pm. Another session will be held in June before the bulk of the roles are advertised.

“This is a great chance for people to meet the team, learn more about the roles we have coming up, and ask questions about the application process,” Cox said.