Ohakune's giant carrot progress report

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 2, Issue 16, 18 September 1984, Page 1

Ohakune's giant carrot progress report

The saga of Ohakune's 'Giant Carrot' continues apace with the latest and very visible developments in Rochfort Park on the outskirts of town. For two weeks now this area has been a hive of activity as holes have been dug, foundations poured and preparations made for the ceremonial unveiling of this future landmark on Saturday 29 September. The triangular area of Rochfort Park between State Highway 49, the Mangateitei Stream and the former Rochfort Road shortcut (now closed to

traffic) is to undergo a considerable facelift which will result in an attractively landscaped area and become a touris| attraction, said spokesman, Terry Drayton, last week. "Travellers will be drawn from Waiouru and the Desert Road round this side of the mountain just to see this much-publicised landmark and the local community will benefit from all these extra visitors," he said. Plans for the landscaped area include: • The giant 7.5 metre fibreglass carrot • Two small lakes joined

by a stream with artificially created waterfalls • A rustic bridge over the stream • A roofed-over information board containing regional and street maps, historic and up-to-date information about the local market-gardening industry, tourist related activities in the area etc • A children's 'carrot-go-round' • An off-street parking area for between 15-20 cars (More news in next week's edition as plans for the other activities associated with this month's grand unveiling are finalised and revealed.)