Topic 6: Do you really need that Community Hall?

Let's talk more about your Community Hall.

We have 28 Community Halls across the Waitaki District that were built between 1890 and 1960. These Halls were established within the communities at a time when life as we know it, was very different to how we live, travel, socialise and keep in contact with one another today.

When the Halls were built, they were the heart of the community. They were places where people gathered and socialised. Whether it was a ball or just a good old-fashioned "shin-dig," these buildings played a big part in bringing the community together. They hosted all sorts of events, from dances and parties to meetings and get-togethers, making them a central part of community life. The Halls were where friendships were made, memories were created, and the community spirit was kept alive.

The Halls are managed by Hall Committees. Some members have approached the Council to talk about the challenges they face. These include limited use of the halls, which means less income to invest beyond rates contributions; rising costs like insurance and electricity; and the difficulty of finding active and engaged members willing to take on the increasing responsibilities of the Committee.

We appreciate the challenges the Hall Committees are facing – we are facing the same challenges.

If your Community Hall is still a valued asset to your community, as many of them are – that's great! Just let us know that you love your hall.

If you're thinking about options for the future of the Hall, let us know which Hall you're contributing rates for, or which Hall is your Community Hall. We can then start working with the Hall Committee and the wider community to come up with ideas and options that will benefit everyone and make sure the community is ready for the future.