Turangi Public Library officially opened

Over 100 people, including Hon. Mark Burton, Mayor Rick Cooper, representatives of Ngti Turangitukua and Ngti Tkwharetoa, Councillors, the Turangi/Tongariro Community Board and members of the public turned out yesterday morning to the official opening ceremony of the Turangi Public Library.

After overcoming a number of challenges, the Turangi Public Library was officially opened with a blessing by Tuatea Smallman and a ribbon cutting and plaque unveiling. The library will be open for the public to enjoy from Tuesday 1 July.

The upgraded library provides the Turangi community with a significantly bigger library space and improved layout, a study area, a separate kid’s area and teen’s area and five new public access computers. The attractive colour scheme and the carpet designs add to the atmosphere to make the library a cosy, welcoming place for the Turangi community. The book collection will be gradually built up now there is more space.

A unique feature of the library is the cultural etchings upon the main windows designed by Ngti Tkwharetoa artist Te Maari Gardiner. The design represents the four Warrior Mountains, Tongariro, Tauhara, Putauaki and Taranaki, who stood in the heart of Te Ika--Maui and fought for the love of Pihanga.

Hon. Mark Burton who cut the ribbon to officially open the library emphasised the importance of a library for a small community. “Public libraries are a critical facility for the community. This new library, alongside the Community Health Centre and the Turangi Aquatic Centre are critical infrastructure and a vote of confidence for the Turangi community,” he said.

Mayor Rick Cooper acknowledged the library staff and the team who have made this project a reality. “Thank you to the library staff and the team who have persevered and kept this challenging project on track - and thank you to the community for your patience and support. Look at the result now, fantastic!” he said.

Turangi/Tongariro Community Board Chairman Don Ormsby also acknowledged the community’s contribution. “There have been many trials and tribulations and there has been added cost, but what a great facility we have now. This library is a credit to the Turangi community,” he said.

Turangi Library Manager Betty Hura-O’Conner said the Turangi Public Library has all the good things a small public library should have. “We encourage teenagers and others to come and use the new study area – it is a great place for homework,” she said.

She also thanked the Turangi sewing club for their superb work in making the cushions for the children’s area.