Cricket
Ground Pavillion
Cricket was introduced into New Zealand by the first colonial
settlers, with the first recorded game being played in December
1832 in Paihia, Bay of Islands. Over the next 60 years, cricket
clubs began popping up throughout the country and with the rapid
growth of Auckland in the 1860’s, Auckland Domain was
developed into a sporting facility which included extensive cricket
facilities.
In
1883 the original pavilion was built and in 1890 it was extended by
the Auckland City Council. Unfortunately by 1890 the building had
become dilapidated and in late 1897 it was burnt down. In early
1898 a plan to rebuild the pavilion at a cost of £800 was developed
and the building was 
finally reopened in December 1898.
The
pavilion was a facility used by a wide range of sporting groups who
made use of the cricket ground. Lacrosse, cycling, athletics,
football and cricket were all played on the cricket field, while
schools, churches and cultural groups all made use of the cricket
ground and pavilion for sporting and social events. Major cricket
games continued to be played at the Domain ground until 1913 when
Eden Park became the preferred venue for representative cricket.
However, local teams continued to play at the Domain.
The
pavilion recently underwent a $650,000 upgrade, which involved
redevelopment of the basement area so that the sports teams'
changing rooms could be moved downstairs. This allowed the upstairs
facilities to be improved, particularly for the performers that use
this area during the annual concerts in the park. The restored
cricket pavilion is dedicated to the memory of Auckland cricketer
Charles Kerr (1906-1985), who played cricket on the Auckland Domain
Grounds for 61 summers. Kerr's ashes were spread over the number
one field, which the pavilion overlooks.
The
cache is a small camo’d sistema, located away from prying
eyes, but possibly in sight of muggles so stealth may be required.
Please ensure that the cache is replaced in exactly the same
location.
honours goes to Boy4Life &
ishoot!