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Last modified: 29 Jul 2024 1:58pm

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The Hororātā Hall has been an integral part of the community since 1890 and is returning to community ownership. Originally built and maintained by the community, the hall has played a crucial role in fostering a thriving rural community and holds significant historical value.

Following extensive discussions between the Hororātā Community Trust and the Selwyn District Council, the Council has officially transferred the title of the Hororātā Hall and the adjacent land to the Trust.

This transfer of ownership means that the Trust will now bear all costs related to the hall's operation and make all future decisions for this facility.

Previously, the Council was responsible for the hall's ownership and covering all repair, maintenance, and operational costs. This decision was confirmed in the Council’s Annual Plan 2022/23.

As per the Long-Term Plan 2021/31, the Council has allocated $1 million in funding (less legal costs incurred) to be transferred to the Trust.

Deputy Mayor Malcolm Lyall says he is enthusiastic about transferring ownership of the historic hall.

“It is great that it will be restored and nurtured and become an even greater asset for the local community. I wish them well and look forward to seeing what they become and how they grow.”

“The Hororātā Community Trust is excited to be the custodians of Hororātā Hall. We are grateful to the work of the Council, which made this possible; it has been quite a complex process,” said Hororātā Community Trust Executive Officer Cindy Driscoll.

“Now is the time to not just add to or renovate the Hororātā Hall but reimagine and repurpose it to stand the test of time while honouring its history and architectural heritage. The Trust looks forward to collaborating with the community to develop a plan for the Hall.

While we plan for the next 12 months, it will be status quo; the Hall will be available for hire and community use. We will work with existing hall users and welcome new groups or businesses to be part of this project.”

To get in contact with the Trust to make bookings at the hall, please email info@hororata.org.nz

On Saturday, August 17th, the Hororātā Community Trust invites people to a ‘Pie and Pint’ night to celebrate new beginnings for our heritage Hororātā Hall. This is a free event; visit Hororātā Community Trust website to register.

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