The Raetihi Community Hub, a collaborative project between Ruapehu District Council and Uenuku Charitable Trust, has achieved a significant milestone as the Project Steering Group embarks on the search for an architect to design the facility.
Council representative on the Project Steering Group, Pauline Welch, said the Registration of Interest (ROI) stage will open this Friday 23 June through to 21 July with the expectation that a contract will be awarded in September.
Ms Welch said the project aims to establish a multi-purpose facility that meets the needs of the community, fosters collaboration, and supports various services and aspirations.
"Both the Council and Uenuku are very excited about reaching the design stage which marks a culmination of years of effort.
The journey leading up to this point was a long one involving multiple stages of community engagement, together with COVID-19 disruptions, which extended the timeline since the development of the initial business case in 2019,” she said.
“The Project Steering Group is now seeking an architect to work closely with the Council, Uenuku, and the Raetihi Community to create a versatile community hub that aligns with the visions of all parties involved.
The design brief specifies the need for a 'fit for purpose' facility that caters to Council and iwi services, while also accommodating future community aspirations, including educational, cultural, heritage, and recreational needs.
The envisioned Community Hub aims to foster a sense of togetherness and provide a space for sharing stories, celebrating culture and heritage, and supporting the economic and social development of Raetihi.
Additionally, sustainability is a key consideration to ensure the facility's longevity and role in reflecting the values of Council, Uenuku and the community,” Ms Welch noted.
“We are wanting to see a building design that will establish the community hub as the vibrant heart of Raetihi.
To do so the exterior design is just as important as the internal layout in shaping the overall success of this project.
It should not only be aesthetically pleasing but blend seamlessly with the surrounding landscape, looking towards the maunga, connecting to the awa, and surrounding environment.
We are eager to see a compelling and contemporary design that presents a forward-thinking vision to rangatahi, the local community, and visitors from outside the region, and captivates the imagination of all those who encounter it," Welch explained.
“Interested architects are encouraged to submit their Registration of Interest from June 23 to July 21.
For further details and application guidelines, please visit:ruapehudc.govt.nz/our-council/tendersor contact Pauline Welch on 07 895 8188.
