RHODODENDRON LAWNS - VICTORY FOR THE PEOPLE OF HAMILTON
NEW ZEALAND - HAMILTON - THE PEOPLE PUSHING BACK, VICTORY FOR DEMOCRACY
A swell of love for a lawn space has pushed back a decision on Hamilton Gardens redevelopments.
Plans to move a car park onto the site of the Rhododendron Lawn riled many gardens lovers, and concerned users such as the Hamilton Gardens Arts Festival.
Hamilton City Council's idea was to create space for more themed gardens, a better entry point for the gardens and to ease traffic congestion on busy days.
But, after a groundswell of support for keeping the lawn where it is, city councillors have handed off the decision to the next council - to be elected in October.
There was a packed public gallery in council chambers on Thursday afternoon, when councillors were due to say yes, no, or not now to the plan.
Councillor Mark Bunting suggested delaying the decision so the community could have more time to have a say, and councillors voted 8-4 in support.
Earlier, they'd heard about concerns from Creative Waikato and the Hamilton Garden Arts Festival Trust, and that a later decision would simply slow down the start of the work.
Council would also have to talk to a potential sponsor to see if that would affect their interest in the project.
Those who voted against putting off the decision were Crs Ryan Hamilton, Garry Mallett, Rob Pascoe, and Leo Tooman.
Cr Paula Southgate had put in apologies for the meeting.
Poll: Do you set New Year’s resolutions?
🎉 2026 is almost here!
We’re curious ... how do you welcome it?
Do you set resolutions, follow special traditions, or just go with the flow?
-
10.3% Yes! New Year, New Me
-
20.1% Yes - but I rarely stick to them
-
69.6% Nah - not for me
Art in the Making
Hands-On Art Workshops Hamilton – Learn 2D & 3D Art
Looking for art workshops in Hamilton? Our hands-on art workshops are perfect for beginners or anyone wanting to learn new art techniques and grow their creativity. In these workshops, you’ll learn 2D 3D skills using a wide range of art materials, while building confidence and developing your artistic abilities.
Whether you want to learn new skills, grow your creativity, or enjoy a full hands-on art workshop, these art workshops in Hamilton are the perfect place to start. Enrol now and start learning!
Book at www.artsforhealth.co.nz...
From rugged campsite to 7.5ha resort
Grant Kilby has always loved camping. His mum was director of health at the YMCA, and he would attend YMCA camps in the school holidays. “I think it was mandatory that I was there,” he jokes.
He went on camping holidays with his parents, and later, took his own kids.
“Camping’s been in my blood.”
Loading…
