A substantial financial contribution to Te Mata Park’s One Giant Chance campaign will help significantly in reaching the Trust’s fundraising goal, says Park Chairman, Mike Devonshire.
Te Mata Park Trust welcomed a donation of $100,000 yesterday, from a private South Auckland Charitable Foundation.
‘’We are delighted with this incredibly generous donation, which has notably bolstered our campaign, ensuring that our target is well within grasp,’’ comments Mr. Devonshire.
Officially launched in July 2018, the One Giant Chance campaign aims to raise $1.25 million to purchase the 8.5 hectare neighbouring block of land, plus a further $250,000 to allow for track development and extensive planting of native trees.
‘’The Trust is extremely appreciative of the support we are receiving. This considerable contribution of $100,000 is a giant leap forward. The organization behind the donation understand that this is a once in a lifetime chance to enhance our treasured Park, and we must pull together as a community to make it happen.’’
A spokesperson from the donating Charitable Trust, reiterates the importance of acquiring this stretch of land. ‘’Adding this parcel of land to the current holdings for the ongoing enjoyment of everyone is an opportunity that must not be missed.’’
With a fundraising deadline of 30 April 2019, the Trust are confident that their target is now very much achievable.
‘’As of today, over $600,000 has been donated from our community, including private donors, local businesses, club events, GiveaLittle and Charitable Trusts. In addition, Hastings District Council have agreed to add an additional $320,000 via the outcome of the 2019 Annual Plan Consultation process, which we firmly believe will be viewed favourably by our local electorate. The combination of the $600,000 already secured and the $320,000 from Council takes us very close to the $1.25 million which is required to purchase the land.’’
With recent statistics indicating that there’s over 1 million annual visits in a car alone, it is no wonder that the Park Trust Board are embracing this exciting initiative to expand the Park.
‘’Chambers Walk, which is accessed from Tauroa Car Park, is becoming increasingly congested. This land will allow us to widen that main entranceway in to the Park, therefore making it safer and more enjoyable for everyone,’’ explains Mr. Devonshire.
‘’New walking tracks will be established, of varying gradients and technicality. A beginner mountain bike track is also intended, suitable for children. And a planting programme is underway that will include manuka, ngaio, flaxes, cabbage trees and kawakawa, attracting more native birdlife.’’
A discreet and environmentally sensitive Sculpture Walkway has also been proposed. ‘’Integrating art, education, history and culture, we envisage that the story of Te Mata is reflected throughout a tastefully designed art experience,’’ adds Mr. Devonshire. ‘’ It would be entirely in keeping with the look & feel of the Park, using elements that reflect the environment.’’
‘’We are on the home stretch of this fundraising campaign, with only a few months and just over three hundred thousand dollars left to go. We ask our community to please rally together and help us – as every dollar counts and makes a difference.’’
If you are interested in supporting the One Giant Chance campaign (all donations are tax deductible), please contact the Trust Board on info@tematapark.co.nz or visit our GiveALittle Page.
