Mainstreet group updated on programme

Ruapehu Bulletin, 11 July 1995, Page 5

Mainstreet group updated on programme

By

Amiria

Teki

Gary Towler from the Community Employment Group of the Department of Labour visited Raetihi on Tuesday 20 June to explain the Mainstreet programme and how it relates to the town. Gary has been instrumental in the setting up the various Mainstreet programmes that have been put in place in cities and towns throughout New Zealand including the Mainstreet programme for Ohakune and Raetihi. He explained that in the Waimarino a co-ordinator was

sought for a full-time position, to fulfil five main initial objectives. They were as follows: □ To organise business seminars which allowed businesses to have an input into ideas and plans of upgrading, improving and creating a better image for the main street of each town. □ To co-ordinate special events that would draw visitors to the area. □ To prepare a brief for a consultant to create designs for the public places of the main streets.

□ To set in motion beautification initiatives (ideas on ways to beautify the main streets of both towns) □ To initiate out of town promotions. All these objectives were met to the satisfaction of the community employment group, although the out-of-town promotional effort proved expensive. Sue Allomes was the appointed co-ordinator. Sue's contract has now expired. Mr Towler' s visit gave the Mainstreet committee members an opportunity to discuss where the group should now focus its attention. Present at the meeting were members of the committee: Elaine Goldfinch, Jessie Seaman, Sue Allomes and Bernice Frost. Jenny Shattack, a visitor from South Waikato, was also present. Jenny is co-ordinator in that area. In terms of Raetihi, it seemed that the theme 'Raetihi, The Mill Town' (in keeping with its pioneering days) has still some way to go. The overall theme embracing both towns, 'Winning Waimarino', is still a popular choice. Bernice Frost commented on . what seemed to be the priorities: □ The cobblestoning of the footpaths. □ The beautifying of the pond situated on the right just on the outskirts of town going towards Ohakune. Turn to page 7

Mainstreet update

FROM PAGE 5 Mrs Allomes spoke of Ohakune' s current developments. At present the town is upgrading Jubilee Park with some help with funds from the Ohakune Hotel Trust. Mrs Allomes has applied to the Wanganui Trust Bank for funds but as yet that has not eventuated. Architect John Achari has been appointed.to draw up plans that will be in keeping with the theme of each town and the region, including Taumarunui. Mr Achari's plans are expected within the next few months. The committee decided to continue along the same lines and would welcome more input from both the business and wider community. Jessie Seaman said she felt it was important to share resources and that included physical input. The committee would welcome any ideas and are keen to include young people from both communities.