Last updated July 2026
Matatiki Hornby Centre is a modern community facility in Hornby, Christchurch, combining a library, indoor pools, creative spaces, a customer service hub and a café. The centre opened on 19 April 2024 at Kyle Park and serves residents and visitors in west Christchurch with a range of learning, recreation and support services. It features specialised library collections, technology-equipped creative areas, multiple indoor pools including a hydrotherapy pool, and spaces for community programmes. The facility is designed to meet the needs of a growing local population and provides year-round indoor activities. Public transport, bike paths and on-site parking support easy access.
Practical Information
| Address | 25 Smarts Road, Hornby, Christchurch 8042 |
| Opening date | 19 April 2024 |
| Key facilities | Library, Auahatanga creative spaces, indoor pools (25 m lane pool, hydrotherapy, teach pool, toddlers pool, spa), café, customer service hub |
| Library hours | Monday–Friday 9am–6pm, Saturday–Sunday 10am–4pm (subject to change) |
| Pool and centre hours | Check recandsport.ccc.govt.nz for current times |
| Accessibility | Wheelchair access, bike stands, car parking, lockers |
| Contact | 03 941 8999 |
About Matatiki Hornby Centre
Matatiki Hornby Centre stands at Kyle Park in Hornby and brings together library services, aquatic recreation, creative technology spaces and council customer services in one building. The centre was developed to address a post-earthquake shortage of major public facilities in west Christchurch and opened officially on 19 April 2024 with a ceremony led by Mayor Phil Mauger.
The library includes the Ngā Pounamu Māori collection and a Pasifika collection alongside general resources, public computers, gaming equipment and free Wi-Fi. Auahatanga creative spaces provide access to digital tools, 3D modelling, sewing and other hands-on activities for all ages.
Indoor pools comprise an eight-lane 25-metre lane pool, a hydrotherapy pool, a teach pool, a toddlers pool and a spa pool. These support recreational swimming, learn-to-swim classes, aqua fitness and therapeutic use. A café on site offers snacks and coffee for visitors.
The customer service hub provides access to council services including rates payments and Metrocard top-ups. The facility incorporates sustainable features such as 625 solar panels on the roof.
Library and Creative Spaces
The library at Matatiki Hornby Centre offers standard borrowing, programmes for children and adults, and dedicated cultural collections. Twelve public computers, PlayStation 5 consoles, virtual reality headsets and printing services are available. Auahatanga creative spaces support digital projects, crafting and innovation with bookable equipment and workshops.
Aquatic Facilities
The pool complex operates year-round and includes a 25-metre eight-lane pool ranging from 1.2 m to 1.8 m deep, a hydrotherapy pool, a teach pool, a toddlers pool and a spa pool. Programmes cover learn-to-swim lessons, aqua group fitness classes and recreational swimming. The hydrotherapy pool supports rehabilitation and relaxation.
Community Services and Access
A customer service hub inside the centre handles council enquiries and transactions. The site is located at 25 Smarts Road with car parking, bike stands and wheelchair access. Public transport links and nearby cycle paths connect the centre to other parts of Christchurch. Operating hours vary by service; visitors should check the official recreation and sport or library websites for the latest details.
What Visitors Often Say
Visitors praise the modern, clean facilities and the convenience of having a library, pools and café in one location. Families appreciate the range of pool options for different ages and the welcoming atmosphere for swimming lessons and leisure time.
Reviewers note the helpful staff, good variety of creative and digital activities, and the overall value as a community hub. Many highlight the newness of the building and the positive impact on local access to recreation and learning resources.
Where to Learn More
Christchurch City Council Recreation and Sport: Official details on pools, programmes, hours and bookings.
Christchurch City Libraries: Library services, collections, creative spaces and opening hours.
Christchurch City Council: Broader information on community facilities and local planning.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Matatiki Hornby Centre open?
The centre officially opened on 19 April 2024.
What is the address of Matatiki Hornby Centre?
It is located at 25 Smarts Road, Hornby, Christchurch 8042, within Kyle Park.
What facilities are available at Matatiki Hornby Centre?
Facilities include a library with cultural collections, Auahatanga creative spaces, multiple indoor pools, a café and a customer service hub.
Does Matatiki Hornby Centre have a hydrotherapy pool?
Yes, the centre includes a dedicated hydrotherapy pool alongside other aquatic facilities.
Is there parking at Matatiki Hornby Centre?
Yes, on-site car parking is available along with bike stands.
Are the pools open year-round?
Yes, the indoor pools operate year-round.
Can I book spaces or classes at Matatiki Hornby Centre?
Yes, meeting rooms, creative spaces and classes can be booked through the council websites.
Is Matatiki Hornby Centre accessible?
The centre provides wheelchair access and other accessibility features.
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