CENTENNIAL CHANGES FOR PARK HEADQUARTERS

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 3, Issue 20, 8 October 1985, Page 5

CENTENNIAL CHANGES FOR PARK HEADQUARTERS

Alterations to Tongariro National Park Headquarters will take place over the next 18 months. Public display areas will be improved so that the present combined static and audio-visual displays will be separated, giving improved viewing for the 100,000 or more people passing through the headquarters each year. The alterations will be a contribution towards the centennial celebrations of national parks in New Zealand, and those of Tongariro National Park, in 1987. The alterations will cost an estimated $400,000 which will come from a direct government contribution of $250,000, and from donations organised through the Tongariro Natural History Society. The society intends to raise $75,000 through the

sale of publications about the park and other activities, and this will be matched by a one-to-one government subsidy. The new displays will be built round three themes: the wonderful gift of the park to the nation by Te Heu Heu in 1887, the volcanoes in the park and the significance of the park to skiing. The story of skiing will be highlighted by a museum of ski clothing and equipment, some of which has already been gathered. Many of the older Ruapehu Ski Clubs and patrols, which are on the Whakapapa side, have much to offer. So far conceptual drawings have been prepared and architects will be working on them over the next few months. Construction will begin during 1986.