Work is underway on the new Manuherekia Valleys Community Hub at the Omakau Recreation Reserve.

Breen Construction is setting up onsite from Monday November 24 and excavation work will begin.

Site preparations have already started, including the removal of a few existing trees to make way for the new building. As part of the project, new fencing and landscaping will be installed to enhance the area once construction is complete.

The new hub is a collaborative effort between the Central Otago District Council and the local community, led by the Manuherekia Valleys Charitable Trust. 

Trust chair Andrew Paterson was excited to reach this stage.

“We’re over the moon to think that we’ll soon be turning the turf on a project that has been so long awaited and needed by the community.”

With $3.5 million already raised towards an expected total build cost of up to $4.1m, the project was approved to proceed in July 2025, following council’s commitment to fund the remaining shortfall on

top of the $1m already approved from Vincent ward reserves.

Funding support has come from local, regional and national sources, acknowledging the value of the new facility and the strong community spirit behind the project.

Key contributions include:

• Central Otago District Council – $1,000,000
• Bob Turnbull Trust – $600,000
• CLT – $800,000
• OCT – $540,000
• Lotteries – $200,000
• Matakanui Combined Rugby Football Club – $80,000
• Santana Minerals – $25,000
• Otago Masonic Lodge - $10,000
• Omakau Toy Library - $10,000

Plus, other generous donations from local businesses and community groups.

The trust continues to fundraise for the internal fit-out, landscaping, and other finishing touches. A golf tournament in Omakau on December 28 will raise funds for the hub, and plans are underway for a

major fundraising event in the New Year.

Construction of the facility is expected to take around 12 months and once complete, the new community hub will serve as a vibrant gathering place for the Manuherekia Valleys, bringing people

together and supporting local events and activities for years to come.

If you would like to attend the whakawatea/sod-turning, please contact the Manuherekia Valleys Charitable Trust: [email protected].