Claims that an entire generation of Cantabrians is missing out by growing up without recreational venues.

Christchurch has been without a 50-metre pool since the earthquakes after popular facilities like the QEII were destroyed.

The Metro Sports facility is set to fill the gap in the community, but the project has been put on hold after a $75 million budget blow out.

NZ Recreation Association CEO Andrew Leslie says they want kids to have good experiences with sport and recreation while they are young so it breeds a lifelong enjoyment.

"If a big chunk of the Christchurch community has missed out on it, or certainly has been limited in terms of how much they can access, then that is a concern down the track in terms of the benefits you can get from being active."

He says that the city's remaining facilities have been put under pressure because of the lack of options, and swimming and basketball teams are now struggling to attract members.

There have been proposals to merge the Metro Sports facility with the new multi-use stadium, but Mr Lesile says they want separate facilities.

"We want to ensure that Metro is still going to go ahead as planned, and for the council to continue to support that."

Mr Leslie says the Association wants to talk with the Minister and the council.