Welcome to the very first edition of Under the Gaslight. This is a fortnightly article highlighting the happenings in Victoria Avenue and adjacent Mainstreet surroundings. The intention is to better inform our readers about what Mainstreet Wanganui does and what is currently going on.
Our biggest recent news is the appointment
of our new Town Centre Manager Amanda Gibbons. Amanda is at the helm of the Mainstreet ship and will no doubt continue and expand the excellent work done by the departing Elise Goodge.
Wooden crosses in the Maria Place gardens are commemorating 100 years of Gallipoli which complement the art installations on our decorative poles representing the birds, dogs and horses that played an integral role during the war. These were designed and made by local school children under the guidance of Andrea and Setske from the Sarjeant Art Gallery. The exhibits will remain in the avenue until early November when they will be replaced by some equally festive decorations...watch this space!
Spring has arrived and we are seeing the emergence of the annual tulips in our city centre gardens. The tulips have taken their time to emerge this year but a welcome sight heralding spring. The city centre gardens have had a tough road through this past winter with several frosts, lots of rain and how can we forget the flooding. You will have noticed also that many of the side gardens throughout the avenue have been planted in shrubs. With tree roots and shading we were fighting a losing battle to retain the flowering annuals and the lomandra and coloured native flaxes are doing well here. Hopefully our weather will continue to include some warmer temperatures and we can look forward to enjoying summer bedding displays.
The Majestic Square fountain has been repaired and flowing just in time for the upcoming Festival of Cultures on October 17. This is an annual event celebrating a diverse range of cultural entertainment, performance and international cuisine - an event not to be missed!
If you have any questions, suggestions or comments, please direct them to the Mainstreet office 348 0157, email us; office@mainstreetwanganui.co.nz or drop in and see us at 36 Ridgway St.
