Public sentiment sees Te Mata Park Trust retain regional council funding

The decision, yet to be formally adopted on 10 July, is welcomed by Te Mata Park Trust and will ensure essential Park maintenance is able to continue.  

Mike Devonshire, Chair of Te Mata Park Trust, said, “The Trust is hugely relieved to hear that the HBRC reconsidered the proposed funding cut in light of public sentiment. This funding is essential to keeping the Park open for the community to enjoy.”

The potential loss of funding to Te Mata Park clearly struck a chord with the community who rallied behind the Park’s ‘Protect the Peak’ campaign that called for public submissions to oppose the Council’s proposed funding cut. The Trust received an outpouring of support from the community over the course of the campaign.

Devonshire said, “It is right that the HBRC rigorously examine its spending and consult ratepayers on their priorities. In this case, the public sent a very clear message – they value Te Mata Park deeply and were not prepared to see it threatened by a loss of funding.”

“We would like to express our sincere gratitude to everyone who took the time to make a submission to the regional council in support of Te Mata Park,” Devonshire added.

The Trust looks forward to continuing the strong working relationships it has built with its funding partners the HBRC and the Hastings District Council. 

Media enquiries:

Sarah Austin-Smith, Manager, Te Mata Park Trust