Confusion over venue bookings

Whangarei Orchid Society member Barbara Johnson. Photo / Michael Cunningham

The administration at Whangarei's Old Library venue is in a flux, with community groups told their bookings have been cancelled despite being made months ago.

Whangarei Orchid Society treasurer Gordon Read said he was distressed to receive a letter from Whangarei District Council's property department, saying the Old Library would not be available for "private events" from July 31.

Mr Read began looking at other sites for the show, before receiving a second message from the council on June 17 saying the group would be able to use the Old Library after all.

The venue was until recently managed by Old Library Ltd, an incorporated society that is an offshoot of the Culture, Heritage & Arts Resource Trust (CHART).

A restructure at CHART starting late last year disestablished Old Library Ltd and appears to have led to the confusion, with building owners Whangarei District Council left to pick up the pieces.

"It is becoming increasingly difficult for small clubs to find venues [where] they can afford to put on displays or shows," Mr Read said.

Mr Read booked and paid a deposit in November 2014 for the society's annual September show.

Orchid Society member Barbara Johnson said the society had joined forces with its Bay of Islands counterpart this year and had 40 people exhibiting hundreds of orchids.

Meanwhile, musician Colin Toomer has organised free lunchtime concerts at the Old Library for more than 10 years and is now looking for another venue.

However, WDC spokeswoman Ann Midson offered assurances that the council looked set to take over management of the building and was committed to making sure pre-arranged events went ahead.

"In the past CHART had formed a company called The Old Library Incorporated to run the management side of the building. It sub-leased the building to CHART, the chamber of commerce and the Shutter Room. This company no longer exists and its lease of the building expires on July 31.

"We want a positive outcome for everyone involved, despite this temporary disruption."

The council has been working with existing tenants who entered into leases with Old Library Ltd and is considering an additional tenant for the building.

CHART co-chair Jeremy Tauri, acting as a spokesman for Old Library Ltd, said the organisation was "unable to service the costs associated with the building and venture and still maintain affordable community rates of hire".

He said staff and volunteers had tried to source alternative venues for pre-arranged bookings.