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North Tec is considering holding apiculture and horticulture courses in the former St John ambulance station in Kaiwaka, but has struggled to find the necessary numbers of students.
The technical institute was invited by St John area committee member Marj Steiner to investigate holding classes in the now vacant ambulance station, which closed earlier this year.
Marj has been involved with the building since it was converted from a Brethren Church into a fitness centre 40 years ago.
Once the fitness centre moved out, the Kaiwaka community raised the funds to gift it to St John. Now that it is no longer used as a station, Marj is keen to see the town still get good use out of it.
North Tec would need at least 10 students to run its beekeeping course in Kaiwaka, but on the information day, only two people turned up.
“North Tec was very keen to get the course going straightaway, as the bees were very active at the end of summer. At this point we are looking at it for next year, and I want to hear from anyone interested in taking the course,” Marj says.
“In the meantime, we are looking at hosting casual group meetings where beekeepers can meet and share information.”
Since the building was opened up to the community, Marj says plenty of groups have put their hands up for innovative new uses.
A group of eight health practitioners are looking at using it as a health hub, with services including physiotherapy, naturopathy and counselling.
It will also host Kate’s Place’s new work-ready course in October, which has been funded by St John and will include first aid and driving lesson instruction for attendees.
“We are also looking at having a regular coffee group for mums, where they can take a break and have a talk about solving the world’s problems.”
There is currently no charge for use of the hall for community services. For professionals charging money for their service it is $70 a day.
Info: Marj Steiner on 027 294 1227.
