The development of a Te Puke Kiwifruit Capital of the World Heritage Hub is progressing. The team is negotiating to lease the ground floor of the historic Te Puke Capital Theatre on Jellicoe St. An incorporated society has been formed, complete with a constitution, business and strategic plans, policies, job descriptions, a bank account, and signatories. This allows the project to apply for grants to design and execute exhibitions.
The heritage hub will focus on celebrating the kiwifruit story as a permanent feature. Admission will be free, with a donation box available. Discussions are ongoing to lease part of the cinema building, which will permanently house the history of the kiwifruit industry. Additional space will allow for rotating exhibitions on other district histories every three months.
Key priorities include leasing a building, advertising for a manager, and applying for grants, including for a curator position. Many have indicated a willingness to donate kiwifruit icons, which will be recorded, stored, and managed appropriately. Interested parties can email Sue Matthews at [email protected]. A public meeting is planned once a building and a manager are secured.
A Te Puke Heritage Hub Facebook page exists, and a webpage is under development. Corporate sponsors have committed for three years, with pledges over $80,000. The community is expected to contribute further once the hub has a building, manager, and exhibition space.
Source: SunLive
