McLean Park Grandstand

The McLean Park Grandstand is the replacement of the old timber structure known as the Harris Stand. Destroyed by fire in 1984, a team of consultants lead by Paris Magdalinos Architects were appointed in August of that same year, and charged with delivering Stage 1 of the structure in time for the Rugby International Feature of 1985. The first piles were driven in October of 1984 and thus began a mammoth fast track project, using steel and precast concrete to erect the two thousand seat stand and fulfil the expectations of their charge.

The project moved at breakneck speed, whilst ensuring the construction programme and cost plan were maintained and the issue of public consultation with all interested bodies, sporting groups and vociferous political activists wee kept informed and at bay to allow the projects to meet it’s criteria.

Officially opened in 1986, the building went on to receive it’s many accolades, publications and received an NZIA Branch Award for it’s design and it’s construction to Hawke’s Bay sports.

The structure embodies strength and conviction. The use of concrete, steel and glass further ratify the strength of Hawkws Bay Rugby, boldly symbolising the conviction and tradition of one of the country’s proudest provincial centers Upright precast panels are anchored and tired with steel. Vibrancy is brought to the hard aesthetic through the incorporation of fifteen large red glass windows at the top of each access point further symbolising the starting fifteen.