More than $11 million could be spent on community programmes and projects across the motu in the coming years thanks to Waiheke’s local board.
The board approved its work programme, subject to conditions, at its July Business Meeting which includes upgrades to facilities, storm damage repair, new amenities and creative arts support.
Board chair Cath Handley says that while the restricted budgets the board has to work with aren’t ideal, she’s excited to see the programme signed off.
“We’ve had to really focus on what’s important for Waiheke and Rakino in our work programme and we may have to change things as circumstances change, but there is still some really good news for some of our local initiatives.”
Take a look at some of the projects and services proposed in the work programme below.
Rakino Hall getting battered by a king tide. Photo from www.rakino.org.nz
Younger Waihekeans will be looked after with $1.4 million going toward major development at Tawaipareira Reserve including pump and learn to ride bike tracks that will be built in coming months, following the prior renewal of the skate park to create a true outdoor activity hub in this already popular spot. Our smallest residents and their parents will also see more improvements to Little Oneroa reserve valued at $369,514.
Waiheke’s open spaces get some TLC with $270,000 going toward assets damaged by recent storm events, and a combined $1.6 million going towards seats, BBQs, lighting, public toilets and much more right across the motu.
Community centers can expect a spruce up, starting with $963,788 going toward the ongoing relocation of the wave-battered Community Hall on Rakino Island. The Artworks Community Theatre and the Community Art Gallery in Oneroa will also receive $150,000 and $169,852 respectively for repairs and refurbishments.
The popular Artworks Community Theatre will continue to be supported by the board.
The board has also increased its funding to the operations of these two centers from $11, 952 to $20,000 each this year in support of their contribution to Waiheke’s creative community, and to avoid them making repeated applications from our limited grants pool.
“We are thrilled with the increase to our operational costs,” says Artworks Community Theatre Manager Kashmir Postel. “The support will allow the theatre to provide further opportunities to the island at an affordable rate as well as creating a platform for local artists to showcase their talents. We plan to continue to represent a wide variety of the community, providing performing arts that enriches the culture of the island.”
You can read the full work programme from the board’s July Business Meeting here.
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