THE future of one of Taranaki's best-known properties was secured this week, with confirmation of Pukeiti's shift to public ownership.
In a deal designed to put the iconic property and its famous rhododendron collection on a sound financial and operational footing, ownership will transfer from the Pukeiti Rhododendron Trust to the
Taranaki Regional Council today.
Council Chairman, David MacLeod, says an immediate result of Pukeiti's new status will be free entry for the public of the region.
"We want everyone to see, enjoy and appreciate this unique and priceless regional asset, one that's renowned nationally and internationally," says Mr MacLeod.
"It is part of our heritage — as much a part of Taranaki as the mountain itself. Pukeiti was developed by hundreds of good citizens over many years and the Council is pleased to assume ongoing responsibility for the property and its plant collection."
The Chairman of the Pukeiti Rhododendron Trust, Lynn Bublitz, says he's delighted the Council is prepared to offer Pukeiti "the secure future it deserves" in partnership with the Trust, which will continue to play a major role in the development of the gardens.
Ownership is being transferred for a "peppercorn" amount. The Council has confirmed the agreement in the wake of positive feedback during public consultation as part of the 2010/2011 Annual Plan process. Trust members formally approved the arrangement last week.
Mr MacLeod says work will begin soon on plans to develop and enhance the property and its plant collection.
"This will be similar to the planning processes which resulted in the very successful redevelopment and refurbishment of the council's existing heritage properties, Tupare and Hollard Gardens. We are looking forward to involving the Trust, PKW and a range of people in this exercise."
The Council has been supporting Pukeiti financially since 2002. Mr MacLeod says the new arrangement has minimal impact on average regional rates — over a full year, less than half the cost of the $14 entry fee Pukeiti has been charging up until now.
