Waihinga Project comments

Town Hall history
Councillor Max Stevens wrote a very passionate article in support of the centre ,published in the local Star newspaper. In this article he quoted some history about the original town hall built 1911/1912.

He failed however to mention that the original design for the building was of grandiose proportions, just like the current design. Some of the local people supported the design, others did not. The original was scaled back to a building of lesser proportion which was then accepted. As there is now a change of funding for this building maybe we should do what our forefathers did ,downsize to what we can afford, correct the division in the town and live within our means. Graham Higginson 84 Dublin St Martinborough 063069467
Graham Higginson
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We have been pushed aside

The news we get is all new venture

In September 2012 I was asked to give a few facts about the Town Hall of one hundred years ago: architectural designs, loans, comments from the time, construction etc.

The first plans were too grandiose so they were revisited and modified to stay within their funds. Labour only plans were costed and bargains sort. Suitable second hand doors and windows were found and other savings made. A loan of three thousand five hundred pounds (2015 = $567,951) was raised by the Council of the day. This proved to be still not enough and a further loan payable by a special rate was raised. This cost the average ratepayer ten pound one shilling and ninepence a year and took forty one years to be cleared. … Continue Reading

Wharekaka Fun

Locals could be forgiven for thinking they were going mad if they heard the bleating of a lamb at Wharekaka in September. Eco the lamb was our special guest who came to spend her days with us and to get her midday feeds from our residents. She was a crowd favourite and we have our fingers crossed that she will be the supreme winner when she attends the Dalefield pet day!

We have had a Birthday Bonanza at Wharekaka this month! Six residents have celebrated birthdays in quick sucession. Lots of cake, balloons, laughter and fun have been enjoyed throughout the month.
We enjoyed another great visit with the children from D.O.T Kids, we always love to see their smiling faces and listen to their beautiful songs. … Continue Reading

From the Mayor

The upgrade of the Martinborough Town Hall to a multi-purpose community hub, The Waihinga Centre, has a funding shortfall.  One way of addressing this is through a targeted rate.  This is a rate paid by those who stand to gain the most benefit from the project.  Council is therefore in the process of consulting with the community as to whether or not it would support such a rate. 

Council’s position in this project is neutral.  We believe that given the support shown by the community so far, by way of the fund raising and donations, that we should consult further before making any decision on the future of this development.  When that process is completed and we have heard from the community, we will make a decision.  We do not believe we were mandated to proceed without secure funding and this is the democratic way of involving the community in that discussion.

Council has written to all affected ratepayers in Martinborough and surrounds.  Please take the time to read the pamphlet, fill it in and return it to us.  Whatever your opinion is, your name and address remains confidential.  Please also be aware that there is a great deal of misinformation being circulated, especially on social media, and this is causing unnecessary anxiety for some people.  If you are unsure of something, please call Council and we will find the answer for you.