Motorhome visitor space opens

Marton now has a space in the middle of town for the exclusive use of people travelling in self-contained caravans and motorhomes.

It was opened on Saturday afternoon by members of the New Zealand Motor Caravan Association (NZMCA). Public relations officer Pete Jenkins said it would accommodate about 30 motorhomes, and all they would need would be water and somewhere to dispose of rubbish.

The space was the former Marton Motor Camp, which closed about five years ago. The association bought it from Rangitikei District Council this year, for $200,000.

The association canvassed neighbours for their views, in the process of getting resource consent. After it was granted members from the wider region pitched in to remove the caretaker's house and some trees, put up a fence and create a new entrance in Oxford St. They kept the toilet block because it was in such good condition.

The 3pm opening was attended by NZMCA members who helped make the park, and by neighbours.

Board member Dawn Fellows made a speech and cut the ribbon. Then everyone moved to a marquee for food, and to toast the new park.

Mr Jenkins believes it will be popular with visitors.

The association's 46,000 members are the only people who can use it.

"All [our members] really need is a nice, safe, secure location to park up for a few days and hopefully spend lots of money in Marton," Mr Jenkins said.