Ohakune may be washed in green

Ruapehu Bulletin, Volume 11, Issue 530, 5 April 1994, Page 1

Ohakune may be washed in green

Green floodlighting for Ohakune has been suggested as part of the 'image enhancement' work of the Waimarino Mainstreet project. At the Winning Waimarino public meeting held last week at Bee Dee's cafe, King Country Energy representative Bruce Thompson passed on the recommendation from energy consultant Neil Griffin to instal floodlights to give a green effect in the town. Floodlights could be installed at various locations around the town, such as on top of the Buck's Drapery building, at the Memorial Gate, on the Information Centre and behind Ohakune Hotel. Funding for the project could come from King Country Energy and the Ohakune Hotel Trust, the meeting was told. The Waimarino Community Board's recent call for submissions on the subdi vision reserves contribution funds expenditure was also discussed. The meeting decided to put in a submission on behalf of Winning Waimarino, supporting the following projects: sealing the Ohakune Carrot site carpark plus kerb and channel, and a roof; upgrading the Lakes Reserve road; upgrading of Jubilee Park play equipment and grounds; tree planting along Ohakune streets. One of the main reasons for the meeting was to consider ideas for the design concepts for the Raetihi and Ohakune central business districts. Main themes to come forward from those at the meeting included "uniquely New Zealand Alpine Resort taking into account the National Park, railways, forestry and river valleys", plus market gardens, colonial, tourism, alpine town, winter resort, summer getaway, relaxation. Ideas for beautification initiatives included: work on the entrances to the townships, erection of information fe boards, upgrading carparks, clean-up of Mangateitei and k Mangawhero rivers, 'park relaxation area' in the central ■^business district, clean-up of empty sections, upgrade of ^ Jubilee Park and toilets, a walkway along the Mangawhero River, planting of the railway bridge area opposite the Powderkeg. The meeting heard that Powderkeg owner Paul Scarf had planted the area with trees and shrubs at his own expense but that the area was constantly being sprayed by council staff. Raetihi's Mainstreet public meeting is to be held at the Ruapehu Hotel Thursday 7 April.