Sign In / Register
The Hoteo North community will celebrate the official re-opening of its historic hall with tree planting and a mid-winter Christmas on Saturday July 25.
The reserve and hall have served the Kaipara Coast community for more than 144 years, hosting everything from World War I and II fundraising dances to agricultural shows, sporting events and social gatherings.
Historical records show that over its lifetime, the site had once accommodated a school, roller-skating rink, blacksmith, boarding house, library, post office, butchery, church, fire training and sports grounds. It had also been home to tennis courts, rugby and cricket teams, and continued to be the base for the Albertland Pony Club.
Dances, wrestling matches, scouts and community meetings have all been hosted in the hall.
Community representatives Natalie Croul and Joanne Marshall told a recent Rodney Local Board meeting that a new committee was appointed in 2022 when the hall was in bad disrepair.
Since then a long-term restoration and development programme had been set in motion.
Key priorities had included creating a stronger governance structure, preserving the hall and grounds, and reconnecting the site with the wider community. Organisers said there had been a major focus on ensuring the reserve remained both historically significant and sustainable.
The refurbishment of the hall, making it dry, clean and secure, meant it would continue to fulfil an important role in the community for many years to come.
Community activities were continuing to expand, including monthly movie screenings, craft sessions, wellness programmes and celebrations, all aimed at strengthening neighbourhood connections. Future plans being explored included the development of a public market and car boot area.
Local supporters say the revitalisation effort is about more than restoring buildings.
“It’s about preserving the stories, identity and spirit of the community, and insuring that the asset is used as it should be,” Natalie said.
She thanked the Local Board and Auckland Council for their support, adding that there were still some challenges ahead.
The current water tank only holds 5000 litres so regularly runs dry, and a washed out culvert was preventing access to large area of the grounds.
The re-opening celebration will run from 10am to late. All welcome.
