Tribute paid to trustees

A strong tribute has been paid to the departing Queenstown Events Centre Trustees by Queenstown Lakes District Mayor Clive Geddes


“The centre was built in 1994 in controversial circumstances and was at that time labeled a ‘white elephant’," Mr Geddes said.


The dedication of the inaugural trustees and those who succeeded them had ensured that the centre became anything but a white elephant


“The contribution of past and present trustees and staff in making the centre the success it is has become has been outstanding and the council and community are extremely grateful for the contribution that has been made,” Mr Geddes said.


The centre was now the most popular community facility owned and operated by the council, with community use increasing at 20% per annum.


With the addition of the aquatic centre and the increasing demand for community sports and recreational facilities (particularly in Wanaka) it became apparent last year that an organisation was needed that could manage these facilities on a district-wide basis, Mr Geddes said


The council took the decision to form Lakes Leisure Limited to ‘eventually’ assume management of all sports, arts and leisure facilities in the district. The changeover from trust to company was being carried out very smoothly, with two directors of the new company having been former Events Centre trustees.


“The council remains committed to meeting community demand for sport and recreation facilities. The new company will be pivotal in delivering on that commitment into the future,” Mr Geddes said.