Photo: supplied via RNZThe Department of Conservation has heard bitter objections and heartfelt support for a Punakaiki community centre, at a packed public hearing in Westport. Punakaiki publican Ian Ryder told the hearing today that the small group of people who had been working with the council had not consulted the businesses in Punakaiki. Mr Ryder said if DOC approved the council's application it should set a condition that no business could be carried out in the community centre that would adversely affect any business between Fox River and Barrytown. We need more young families, and young families need a place to meet and hold events that are not suitable for holding in commercial venues. "I am pretty relaxed about the location (of the Punakaiki community centre) but I think it is the best of a limited bunch," Mr Smith said.

Source: Otago Daily Times January 28, 2020 04:52 UTC