Christmas tree shows community spirit
Riverton’s community Christmas tree has finally arrived to the delight of residents.
The mastermind behind the tree, Tanya Colyer, and a group of supporters set it up in the playground beside the main street yesterday.
‘‘This has been a community project, everyone in the town has supported it,’’ Colyer said.
The 5.5-metre high metal frame tree cost $17,000 to buy in China and transport to Auckland. It was brought to Riverton by Mainfreight NZ at no charge.
Colyer began having thoughts about a community Christmas tree four years ago.
‘‘I was talking to someone and they said, ‘wouldn’t it be good if Riverton had one’.’’
Last year Colyer started fundraising. Ten quiz evenings were held, public donations received, along with financial support from local groups, businesses and organisations, including Community Trust South, Riverton Rotary and Lions Clubs and Riverton Op Shop.
Riverton schools also did fundraising. The Riverton Aparima Community Board and Southland District Council have also supported it.
A security camera will monitor the tree until it comes down on January 6. The tree will be erected again in July for the twilight markets.
Colyer said the tree was a valuable decoration for the annual street parade on December 24.
‘‘The tree is a huge asset and something special for the town.’’
Riverton Aparima Board chairman Blair Stewart applauded Colyer’s work to secure the tree.
‘‘She did so much fundraising,’’ he said. ‘‘It will be really great for our parade.’’
The Riverton Lodge owner Fiona Hikawai admired Colyer’s drive and tenacity to stick with the project. ‘‘She’s done a great job. A lot of people were involved . . . it shows the spirit of Christmas is in Riverton.’’