Wheels well in motion for new lakefront cafe

Hamiltonians won't have to wait long to enjoy The Verandah, Hamilton Lake's new lakefront café and event facility. Demolition of the existing lake kiosk began on June 12 and, following an official tendering process, Hamilton City Council today awarded the $1,923,000 contract to construct The Verandah to Foster Construction.

Demolition of the old tearoom buildings are scheduled to be complete this month with construction of The Verandah to also commence in June and run through to March 2009.

The Verandah is designed by architects Chibnall Swann and once complete it will accommodate a range of purposes and complement the area's existing views and natural surrounds. In addition to a café and kiosk, a large function room will cater for business, sport, education and community groups.

Ecologically sustainable design will play a key part in the facilities development, incorporating features like natural day-lighting and rainwater harvesting.

Hamilton City Council Parks and Gardens manager Bill Featherstone says "The Verandah is an exciting development which will add another fantastic facility to the city and greatly improve the experience Lake visitors have."

Until The Verandah opens, temporary services will ensure visitors to Hamilton Lake can continue to enjoy a tasty treat while they are there.

As part of this temporary service, in the busy summer months a full food and beverage service will operate. Customers will be able to choose from a hot and cold menu which includes a range of coffees, juices, smoothies, soft drinks, snacks, ice creams, burgers, fries, seafood, panini, toasted sandwiches, salads and wraps.

During the quieter winter months the temporary service will also operate but will offer customers a smaller selection of items.

The temporary food service will operate from Hamilton Lake's existing carpark, near the site of The Verandah and within easy reach of the foreshore and children's playground.