Takapau reserve: Council seeks feedback on 33-year land lease proposal

The Central Hawke’s Bay District Council is proposing to lease 2300sq m of the Takapau Reserve to the Takapau Community Health Centre Charitable Trust.

Central Hawke’s Bay residents are being consulted on their views regarding a proposed 33-year lease of land that forms part of the Takapau Reserve.

The Central Hawke’s Bay District Council proposal would see 2300sq m of the reserve at 36 Charlotte St, leased to the Takapau Community Health Centre Charitable Trust.

A council spokesperson said the proposed ground lease would be for a maximum term of 33 years (an initial term of 11 years, with two further renewal terms of 11 years).

A spokesperson for the council said the trust approached it in 2023 to present and discuss their plans and ideas, including leasing part of the Takapau Reserve.

“The trust plans to create a community services centre on the land, including moving a purpose-built medical centre onsite,” the spokesperson said.

The council is also proposing to gift the former Scouts buildings to the trust to incorporate into its facility.

Acting chief executive Dylan Muggeridge said it was important to seek the views of the broader community to ensure the council could make a considered decision on the proposal and the future of the public reserve.

“We encourage all community members to share their feedback before February 9. This is an opportunity for residents to contribute to the shape of our community’s future,” Muggeridge said.

“The trust has done a great deal of fundraising for this community-led project, and the council is happy to facilitate and work together towards a solution.”

You can make an online submission at letstalk.co.nz or email, or write to the council.

Meanwhile, it’s all go in CHB, with work starting on new roofs for Takapau and Ōtāne community halls.

This project is partially funded by the Lottery Community Facilities Fund, which covers 66% of the total project cost.

The spokesperson said community halls were more than just buildings.

“They are the backdrop of our shared history and the focal point of rural life. When the need for these roof replacements was identified, council collaborated with the hall committees and the community to secure the necessary external funding.”

The 150th anniversary of Ōtāne Hall, built in 1876, will be celebrated this year.

“It has served generations as a venue for welcome-home dances for soldiers from both world wars, weddings, tangihanga, school events, and, today, regular artisan markets and yoga classes,” the spokesperson said.

Takapau Hall as opened in 1908. It was built after residents chose a community hall over a town water supply.

“It has been a mainstay for amateur theatre, community dances, Anzac Day commemorations, and groups like the Lions Club and Women’s Institute. Over the years, it has also housed a skating rink and a movie theatre, remaining a versatile community space to this day.”

LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.