Town Centre Opening New Chapter For Dannevirke

As Dannevirke opens its refurbished town centre and a new chapter in the history of the town begins many will be turning out at midday on Saturday to celebrate the event.

Central to the celebration will be the dedication of the new town clock and the blessing of a locally carved sculpture of Papatuanuku the Earth Mother.

The event will be part of the Dannevirke annual spring festival.

Clowns, dancers, bands, and spot prizes are among the activities and well-known comedienne Ginnette McDonald as Lyn of Tawa, will be on hand to mingle with the crowd.

Shop opening hours will be extended and the town’s major attraction the Fantasy Cave will also be open.
The town centre opening brings to an end a huge project which has spanned almost five years of planning and construction.

Not since 1908 and the horse and carriage era when new pavement, kerbs and the road were completed has the town been so extensively upgraded.

Now residents can enjoy a CBD that is designed for safety, easy maintenance and with the capacity for ultra fast broadband.

So today, a transformed High St with its wide sweeping corners, cream pavers, balustrades, attractively designed street furniture and newly planted trees in leaf greets a new era.

Mayor Maureen Reynolds says that it’s time now to acknowledge those who have been involved with the project – especially those businesses and people who were affected by the construction.

“Thank you for your patience, now it’s time to bring your families and celebrate.”