Redesign celebrates Scottish heritage

 

 

Waipu’s plans to transform its museum into a major tourist attraction has received a shot in the arm with a $100,000 grant from community funder ASB Community Trust.

 


The improved exhibition will tell the story of migration and settlement.

The money will go toward a planned redesign, which aims to highlight Waipu’s Scottish heritage.

“From the design plans we can see that this redevelopment will ensure that the museum experience starts at the door,” says ASB Community Trust CEO Jennifer Gill. “The improved exhibition will tell the story of migration and settlement of the area and make the most of the museum’s comprehensive collection.”

ASB Community Trust is not the only organisation to be impressed with the plans. Destination Northland Ltd will add the museum to its marketing strategy and the national Te Papa museum is using the Waipu Pioneer Settlers Memorial Museum’s resources as part of an exhibition on New Zealand’s Scottish heritage.

Exploring the history of the Scots in New Zealand, the Te Papa exhibition “Unpacking the Kist” opens in August and will include the story of Waipu’s development by Highlander settlers.

Meanwhile, in nearby Mangawhai, the Mangawhai Domain Society has been granted $109,207 by ASB Community Trust toward upgrading the domain pavilion. The building – used by a range of community groups - is to be extended and upgraded, with improved storage, toilet and kitchen facilities.  

“The upgrade will improve the facility for all users,” says Ms Gill. “Mangawhai is a fast-growing area and the domain society is aiming to provide a facility that will meet the anticipated increase in use.”

ASB Community Trust decides on grants for projects in education, the arts, sport, recreation, environment, heritage, health and social services areas each month.

Founded on the sale of its shares in the ASB Bank, the Trust has granted more than $600m since being formed in 1988. Any incorporated or charitable trust can apply for funds, provided they are a not-for-profit organisation.
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For further information, contact:

ASB Community Trust CEO Jennifer Gill, (09) 360 0291, or 027 2468 016.

Mangawhai Domain Society President Melane Quigley, 09 431 5065 or 027 535 1116. Waipu Centennial Trust Board, Manager Patsy Montgomery, 09 432 0746.