Like many Gymnastics clubs in Auckland, Waitakere Gymnastics has been formed over many years through clubs joining together to pool their resources.
Waitakere Gymnastics first started as Lynrey Gymnastics Club in 1956.
| 1956 |
Lynrey Gymnastics Club becomes an Incorporated Society
First club President Mr Les le Rey |
| 1956 |
Mr Les Le Rey formed the club in 1956 and classes were held in the old R.S.A. building. Initially a boys' club, it soon developed and catered for girls as well. |
| 1960's |
In the early years only recreational gymnastics were taught and it was during the 1960s that competitive gym began. Around this time, the club moved to the Lyndale Athletic and Harrier Club Hall in Portage Road. Meetings were held twice a week and club rolls soon became full. |
| 1970's |
Competitive gymnastics were also bringing their share of reward for the club but it wasn't until the late 1960s and early 70s that a strong committee gave competitive gymnastics a major push. With more hours available for training and better equipment, the club began to make its mark in competition. |
| 1974 |
By 1974, Lynrey had 250 members and for the first time, won the shleld for the top female gym club in the Auckland Association. It also came fourth in the male competition. |
| 1977 |
The shield stayed in the Lynrey trophy cabinet for three years, and in 1977 the club added the shield for the top club in the Male Competition. By now the club had 420 members. |
| 1978 |
By 1978, across all gym activity including rhythmics, the club had 19 members representing Auckland in various grades. Before long New Zealand titles were won by Lynrey gymnasts and many members competed overseas, visiting such countries as Australia, Canada, USA, USSR, West Germany, France, UK and Singapore. |
| 1985 |
In 1985 the club had several members representing New Zealand in international competition with more waiting in the wings. |
| 1985 |
1985 saw the birth of a vision and fundraising commenced for a new Gymnasium to be located in Olympic Park, New Lynn. (Brochure)
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| 1988 |
Construction of long awaited building commences. |
| 1994 |
Lynrey Gymnastics Club amalgamates with Academy Gymnastics to form Lynrey Academy. |
| 1997 |
Lynrey Academy was joined by WASP’s to form the biggest gymnastics club in Auckland.
The new club's name was changed to Waitakere Gymnastics Club Incorporated.
The Gymnasium building was officially named Lynrey Gymnasium.
Club colours of blue, white and jade are adopted. |
| 2007 |
50th Jubilee celebrated. |
| 2008 |
Portage Licensing Trust donated $20,000 to pay off remainder of mortgage. |
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