The angel atop Kaitaia's War Memorial gets some attention from master craftsman Paul Marshall. Photo / Supplied
The angel atop Kaitaia's War Memorial gets some attention from master craftsman Paul Marshall. Photo / Supplied
The Far North District Council is upgrading the park as part of a project involving Te Hiku Community Board, Far North (Kaitaia) RSA, the Kaitaia Business Association and the Angel Restoration Group.
Improvements decided after community consultation last year include plenty of open space, a mosaic on the rear wallof the memorial and better access for people with disabilities. Work started on September 7 and should be completed by February.
The council also plans to upgrade the nearby Melba St public toilets, which have been the subject of years of complaints due to their poor condition. The refurbished loos will include a coin-operated shower, baby-changing area and better lighting.
Te Hiku Community Board chairman Lawrie Atkinson said the projects were scheduled to be finished in time for Remembrance Park's 100th anniversary celebrations on March 24, 2016.
"Remembrance Park is the place where the community remembers Te Hiku people who gave their lives for their country. For the last few years, it has looked increasingly shabby. I'm pleased it is now getting the upgrade it has long deserved."
Kaitaia's War Memorial consists of a marble angel on a plinth bearing an inscription in English and Maori alongside the names of 84 soldiers from Mangonui county who died at Gallipoli in 1915.
One of the first World War I memorials in New Zealand, it was commissioned by Te Rarawa leader Riapo Puhipi (Leopold Busby).
