Preliminary designs for the Cromwell Memorial Hall and Events Centre are now online and will soon be visible via virtual reality technology at upcoming drop-in sessions.

Drop-in sessions will be held on March 10, 11, and 12 at McNulty House in Cromwell. 

The rooms in the house will be themed to take people on a journey through the design process.

The designs have received input from external consultants, including structural and civil engineers, mechanical specialists, theatre specialists, and key stakeholders. 

A spokesperson for the council said that all aspects of the design were considered, including sizes of spaces, infrastructure services, landscaping and, in consultation with the RSA, options for the memorial gardens.

A view of Cornish Point from the new centre’s café

Central Otago District Council property and facilities manager Garreth Robinson said an exciting drawcard for the drop-ins would be the opportunity to view the building through virtual reality goggles.

“You’ll be able to immerse yourself into the building and experience how the design will feel in three dimensions,” he said.

Those attending the drop-ins will have a chance to chat with and ask questions of the design consultants Jasmax, council staff and community board members. 

There will also be an opportunity for people to give feedback on the day or via an online forum.

The project’s next steps include meeting with external funders later this month (February 2023) and bringing developed designs back to the Cromwell Community Board for approval in May.

The designs can be viewed here.