Fraser Park (Timaru) Explained

Alpine Energy Stadium
Location:328 Church Street, West End, Timaru, New Zealand
Surface:Grass
Former Names:Fraser Park
Capacity:12,500

Alpine Energy Stadium, originally called Fraser Park, is a sports stadium in Timaru, New Zealand. It is currently used mostly for rugby union matches. The stadium is able to hold 12,000 people or 12,500 with temporary seating.

History

The South Canterbury Amateur Athletic Club purchased land on Otipua Road in 1871 and developed it for athletics. In 1876 it became the home of South Canterbury rugby. It also staged cricket and trotting events. Originally called the South Canterbury Amateur Athletic Club Grounds, it was renamed Fraser Park in 1926, and Alpine Energy Stadium in 1995.[1] That same year, overhead floodlights were installed for night games at the park.

Tenants

The stadium is the home ground of the South Canterbury Rugby Team, who play in the Heartland Championship.

Stadium

The stadium had two main stands until April 2016 the east stand was closed permanently due to damage. Otherwise, the stadium is surrounded by embankment.

Temporary site for games from Christchurch

In the wake of the February 2011 Christchurch earthquake, the Christchurch Super Rugby team, the Crusaders, moved two Super 15 seasonal games (versus the Bulls and the Blues) to Alpine Energy Stadium.[2]

Notes and References

  1. Web site: About us . Fraser Park . 18 April 2024.
  2. Web site: Timaru crowd flock to game . 11 April 2011 . . 16 September 2011.