Sculpture event a hit with fans

Rotorua Hamurana Lodge came alive on Saturday with the inaugural Art & Soul in the Park @ Hamurana.

Staff at the boutique hotel were expecting only 50 people.

"We were extra pleased when 130 people came," manager Fred Novella told The Daily Post.

Organisers got great feedback from those who attended and Mr Novella said it was very much enjoyed. A portion of the ticket price went to Ngongotaha's Ronald McDonald Family Retreat and $300 was raised.

Mr Novella expected the figure would be higher with people also able to make separate donations which had yet to be counted.

Visitors were able to take a picnic and relax in the grounds of the lodge. Food and wine were also available at the venue.

The art trail, featuring 27 sculptures, was also popular. Some of the district's and the country's top artists had their works on display, including Bruce Young, Chris Moore, Duncan Leask, Trevor Nathan, Ann Korver, Will Clijsen and Joe Kemp.

The art trail was organised by national curator Hilary Smythe and she said there was a huge amount of interest shown by the public.

"All credit to [the managers] - it's a magnificent site. Hopefully this will become a really big tourist asset for Rotorua."

Despite only one piece being sold, Ms Smythe said she was confident more would go.

"Buyers generally just fall in love with an art piece - they make a connection."