The work of volunteers who run a Naseby information and craft centre welcoming visitors to the town, was acknowledged yesterday with the granting of $4000 for operational costs, despite council recommending its application be declined.

Central Otago District Council community development officer, Nikki Aaron told members of the Maniototo Community Board yesterday that the group’s application, which was for a community grant, should have been applied for from the promotional grant fund.  

“The funds are totally different and this one doesn’t fit that fund.”

The two funds have different criteria and the group could have applied for promotional funding from March next year which would have been likely to paid, if approved, by May, she said.

Board member Sue Umbers spoke in support of the small group who she said provided a service for extended periods of time in what was the only place people could find information.

She believed the group met a lot of the criteria for a community grant particularly in looking after locals needs as well as that of visitors.

“Naseby [information centre] is open to everyone, visitors and locals alike, it has a bigger benefit in the overall picture. It would be a shame to make those Naseby ones struggle.” 

Maniototo board meeting

Council Marketing and Media manager, Alison Mason, said if the group applied in future to the promotional fund, its operations in relation to the ratepayer-funded Ranfurly information centre would have to be assessed.

Museum and Pool Supported

The Maniototo Early Settlers Association were also successful in securing $8,332 in the funding round after applying for $10,000.

It was the first time the group had had to apply under the council’s new contestable funding system aimed at opening up opportunities to more groups. 

Previously the amount had been allocated annually. No case had been provided by the Association for an increase to $10,000 from the $8,332 annual amount, according to a council report.

The group run a museum in Naseby which was opened by locals 86 years ago, housing donated exhibitions from early settlers representing 15 different nationalities. A part time curator is supported by volunteers. 

The Board also contributed $2500 of it’s $15,000 total community grant budget toward the re-roofing of the Oturehua community swimming pool.

Snow and wind had again damaged the facility’s plastic roofing and a more permanent structure was planned. This would allow extended usage beyond a few short weeks over summer, better changing rooms and the potential to attract cyclists and others.

The Ida Valley Pool Trust, who manage the facility, had applied for $10,000 and council had recommended $5000 be given.

The group have already raised $62,000 as well as $11,000 in community contributions toward the $80,000-plus project.