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International interest high as troubled Mclean Park turf begins makeover

Napier Mayor Bill Dalton and council chef executive Wayne Jack say the makeover will make it a multi-use venue.

Napier's McLean Park is keen to put its dire drainage history in the past as it begins a nearly $5 million turf replacement.

Work began today to rip up the current turf and replace it with a hybrid grass in time for spring rugby season.

The venue hasn't seen international cricket since a downpour failed to drain away during a Chappell-Hadlee clash between New Zealand and Australia in February last year.

Confused fans were kept waiting for hours before the game was called off without a ball being bowled. 

Two cricket games were scheduled for this summer but the Napier City Council decided to give them to other venues at risk of a similar situation.

The high-tech hybrid turf is being grown in Pukekohe on a specialist backing. Artificial fibres are embedded in the backing to create additional strength. Plastic sheeting ensures that root growth is carefully managed, and the grass able to be harvested following its growth cycle.

Napier City Council Chief Executive Wayne Jack says the $4.9 million price tag will mean the venue can be multi use.

"We are replacing all the drainage system. We are also putting in an irrigation system and also sensors as well so they will be able to monitor soil moisture and it will be able to control how much water we put on and when we put that water on it on. So also it will be  a lot more efficient," Mr Jack said.

The same turf is used at Eden Park and the Melbourne Cricket Ground and the council says international interest in using the new turf has been high, with Mr Jack letting slip that motocross extravaganza Nitro Circus is set to come to McLean Park in February.

"We'll be able to change around quite quickly between different events. So you will be able to go from a concert to having cricket here." 

Napier Mayor Bill Dalton says there have been revenue losses due to the park not being up to scratch.

"At the end of the day the important thing is we are now going to have one of the best parks for multi-use in New Zealand," he said.

The hybrid turf is due to be harvested and transported to Napier in July.

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