Carterton’s mayor has put his money where his mouth is with a $5,000 personal donation towards the construction of Carterton’s new civic centre. Ron Mark and partner Chris Tracey’s belief in the benefits to youth of the multi-purpose centre, has led them to making their largest donation ever to any one cause.
“This new facility, with its youth centre, restoration of New Zealand’s oldest working library, toy library, auditorium, Plunket rooms and flexible spaces is truly designed to cater for the development of our people from the cradle to grave,” Ron Mark said.
He said Carterton had the fastest growing population of the three Wairarapa district councils which included the fastest growing youth population. “The centre is particularly fundamental to the future wellbeing and development of our young people. The youth centre will greatly add to initiatives we have already taken to provide facilities and constructive activities for youth and allow us to run organised programmes,” Ron Mark said. “We are particularly looking forward to seeing kids actively engaged with police Blue Light events, youth bands performing on our stage, and Scouts, Guides and other groups making the most of the range of spaces provided in the centre,” Ron Mark said.
Ron Mark said he was looking forward to the centre opening on time in October, and seeing the first performance in the auditorium. “The plethora of musicians that Carterton is becoming renowned for will have their own stage which is also attracting interest from performing arts groups from further afield.”
Ron Mark said there had already been strong interest in bookings for the centre from corporates and community groups. “A number of businesses who have toured the construction site and have seen the various spaces taking shape have indicated their desire to host conferences there.”
“We know that the centre will bring more people into town – it is clear that this will benefit High Street business. I am hoping it will be a launch pad to generate confidence amongst developers to invest in accommodation in the town so we can take advantage of the meeting and conference market.”
The Carterton Events Trust formed to help build the centre is edging closer to the $1.5 million target to help with the construction of the centre, with more than $1.2 million raised. “Now is the time for more locals to contribute to this project which is about to become a reality,” No contribution is too small,” Carterton Events Centre Trust chairman, John Greenwood. Tiered sponsorship options and smaller donations by way of a ‘Buy a Brick’ programme are invited. “This is a great way for individuals and families to be a part of the centre and receive permanent recognition there,” Mr Greenwood said.
The council-owned centre to be built in Holloway Street will include an upgraded and extended public library and a new town hall/auditorium able to host performing arts, cultural and community activities, exhibitions, conferences and social events. A youth centre will provide a robust, dedicated space for young people and children will benefit from new Plunket rooms and the toy library. A large foyer will double as an art exhibition area and information centre. Modern meeting rooms will provide comfortable places where locals and visitors can gather.
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