Views sought on old marae building
Residents are being called upon to share their thoughts on what will happen to the Tokoroa Community Marae.
The building located on Lochmaben St is on Nga Waka Trust owned land but is completely dilapidated.
Trustee Thomas Joseph encouraged people to come forward with their opinions on its future.
‘‘Because the building is so dilapidated, we wanted to know whether we should just get rid of the building and start again.’’
The once popular building used for social and community events stopped being used, he said, it was then ignored and left in an inoperative state.
He said it would be more costly to fix the building which has holes in the walls, no cladding or doors amongst other problems.
Despite the decision falling on the trust, Joseph said it was important for people to come forward as it was built by the community members more than 50 years ago.
No decisions can be made yet though until the rates arrears have been paid off.
It was at $37,000 two years ago and the trust has slowly chipped away at it since, he said.
Efforts to clean up the grounds were also on track after long grass and shrubs were removed by volunteers and correction workers.
An annual general meeting will be held at 6pm on June 30 at the Waiariki Polytech for those interested in sharing their thoughts.
It is also a chance to bring new blood on the trust as there is room for three new members, he said.
‘‘It’s sort of an election for new trustees.’’