Photo ODT filesA Clutha District community's Chinese New Year celebrations have been cancelled due to asbestos. The event was planned for Friday February 26 at the historic Lawrence Chinese Camp. The camp's charitable trust confirmed on social media that asbestos was discovered in the Empire Hotel during a survey this week. "While shifting to another venue was an option, trustees felt the Chinese Camp was the best fit for a Chinese New Year celebration in our community." An open day will be held when it is safe to host the public, but the rest of the historic camp is safe to visit.

Source: Otago Daily Times February 21, 2021 03:56 UTC