Joan Williamson recognised for outstanding contribution to Taupo

The Taupo Rose Garden has been renamed “The Joan Williamson Rose Garden” to honour the previous Mayor’s 30 years of service to the Taupo District.



An official renaming ceremony was held this morning in recognition of Joan Williamson. The public rose garden, situated at Storey Place, will now be known as The Joan Williamson Rose Garden.



A plaque has been placed in the newly named garden which reads ‘The Joan Williamson Rose Garden - Named in recognition of the outstanding contribution made to the district by Mrs. Williamson during her many years of public service including her time as Mayor of Taupo Borough from 1986 to 1988 and of Taupo District from 1988 to 2001'.



Mayor Rick Cooper, who was in attendance to officiate the renaming ceremony, spoke about Mrs Williamson’s achievements and dedication. “Joan has given so much to this community, we owe a lot to her motivation and commitment, and it is a pleasure to give something back to her”.



Joan Williamson was touched by the ceremony, “This will be a beautiful reminder of my 30 years or so in local government and of all the wonderful people I have worked with” she says.”



Mrs Williamson was Mayor of the Borough Council from 1986 to 1988 and then of Taupo District from 1988 to 2001. During her term as Mayor, she had a lot to do with the establishment of the now flourishing garden, making the Rose Garden an appropriate venue to rename after her.





ENDS