Te Mata Park’s fundraising campaign has successfully reached its first milestone, securing 8.5 hectares of new land for public use.
‘’We are delighted with the outcome and would like to thank each individual, organisation and business who has supported us. In just 10 months of fundraising, our local community has pulled together to make this a reality,’’ comments Mike Devonshire, Chairman of Te Mata Park Trust Board.
‘’We reached our target of $1.25 million late last night, with donations coming in at the eleventh hour. The contract with the vendor has now gone unconditional.’’
Despite the impressive triumph in securing the land purchase, Mr. Devonshire is quick to note that the project still some way to go.
‘’We are now working towards the second stage of our project, which is to develop the land for public use, including trackwork and planting of native trees. We are looking to raise a further $250,000.’’
The Trust Board will continue their fundraising efforts over the coming months, both locally and nationally. ‘’Now the land is secured we can now access many larger Charitable Trusts that were hitherto unavailable to us. The initial feedback from the Trusts has been overwhelmingly positive.’’
Plans are also in the pipeline for a new track network incorporating varying levels of walking tracks and also a beginner mountain bike track aimed at children. The Trust Board will also work with experts on a native tree planting programme. ‘’The potential for this beautiful block of land is quite exciting,’’ comments Mr. Devonshire.
Officially launched in July 2018, the One Giant Chance campaign raised funds to purchase 8.5 hectares of neighbouring land, located on the Havelock North side of Te Mata Peak, and between the two main car parks.
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 unique art experience,’’ adds Mr. Devonshire. ‘’ It would be entirely in keeping with the look & feel of the Park, using elements that reflect the environment.’’
The Park Trust also aim to invest further in learning opportunities. ‘’The new land will enhance education around the unique flora and fauna, and cultural significance of the Park. Its location is accessible from both car parks, and therefore is ideal for school or youth groups to visit.’’
‘’With an increasingly busy Park and over 1 million visitors a year, this land will enable us to make the Park safer and more enjoyable for all.‘’
‘’The groundswell of support for our campaign has been very humbling. The volunteer Trust Board has worked tirelessly over the last year to make this project a reality, but it really took a community to get it across the line. It truly does reflect the depth of connection that people feel towards Te Mata Peak,’’ adds Mr. Devonshire.
‘’This is a huge milestone in the history of Te Mata Park. On behalf of all the Trust Board, we would like to thank everyone, from far and wide, for their support of our treasured Te Mata Park.’’
The Trust Board is continuing to accept donations, which will go towards native trees and trackwork on the new land.
To donate, you can visit the Trust’s GiveaLittle page, or make a donation by cheque or online banking. All donations are tax deductible
