Name reflects national significance

Whanganui's new community glass facility has been named New Zealand Glassworks - Te Whare Tuhua O Te Ao.

In a report to Whanganui District Council, Community Glass Facility manager Scott Redding said the name aligned with "internationally recognised facilities such as Canberra Glassworks and the newly established Melbourne Glassworks".

It would also place the facility in a national context and "help focus national perceptions of the Whanganui District as a vibrant a creative tourism precinct".

In November last year council bought Chronicle Glass on Rutland St and decided to establish the community glass facility.

The intention is to retain glass art in the community following the closure of Whanganui Glass School.

"Art glass is a niche market both nationally and internationally and the new facility has significant potential to highlight the city's creative diversity and reputation in the global arts community," Mr Redding said in his report.

Kaumatua John Mahi came up with the Maori part of the name which means The House of Obsidian.

Branding of the facility will cost an estimated $3000.