Two week delay for opening of Museums new Don Stafford Wing

Rotorua Museum has postponed the official opening of the new Don Stafford Wing until Friday 2 September 2011 – a delay of two weeks.

The new wing will now open to the public on Saturday 3 September.

Museum Director Greg McManus said delays in the delivery of crucial materials and technology from overseas have been a major consideration in reaching the decision.

"Obviously we are disappointed to have to delay the opening, however we want to ensure that everything is completed to the highest possible standard. Due to a number of factors beyond our control we felt this may not be possible if we kept to the 19th August date.

"This has been a long and complicated project, started in 2006, so delaying the opening a couple of weeks in order to get everything right is the correct decision in my opinion."

Rotorua Museum Centennial Trust chair Lyall Thurston says the $22 million project is a very significant one for Rotorua.

"The opening of the final stage, the Don Stafford Wing, on 2nd September will position the museum as one of Rotorua and New Zealand's top visitor attractions.

"While the delay is unfortunate ... at the end of the day it is more important that we get it right," he said.