RHODODENDRON LAWNS - VICTORY FOR THE PEOPLE OF HAMILTON
NEW ZEALAND - HAMILTON - THE PEOPLE PUSHING BACK, VICTORY FOR DEMOCRACY
A swell of love for a lawn space has pushed back a decision on Hamilton Gardens redevelopments.
Plans to move a car park onto the site of the Rhododendron Lawn riled many gardens lovers, and concerned users such as the Hamilton Gardens Arts Festival.
Hamilton City Council's idea was to create space for more themed gardens, a better entry point for the gardens and to ease traffic congestion on busy days.
But, after a groundswell of support for keeping the lawn where it is, city councillors have handed off the decision to the next council - to be elected in October.
There was a packed public gallery in council chambers on Thursday afternoon, when councillors were due to say yes, no, or not now to the plan.
Councillor Mark Bunting suggested delaying the decision so the community could have more time to have a say, and councillors voted 8-4 in support.
Earlier, they'd heard about concerns from Creative Waikato and the Hamilton Garden Arts Festival Trust, and that a later decision would simply slow down the start of the work.
Council would also have to talk to a potential sponsor to see if that would affect their interest in the project.
Those who voted against putting off the decision were Crs Ryan Hamilton, Garry Mallett, Rob Pascoe, and Leo Tooman.
Cr Paula Southgate had put in apologies for the meeting.
Learning to Draw
If you’ve always wanted to learn to draw but never knew where to start, this beginners drawing workshops is the perfect place to begin. Using pencil, charcoal, graphite and oil pastels, you’ll learn beginner-friendly techniques that make drawing feel simple, relaxing and achievable.
Discover how to see like an artist, create depth with shading, and express mood through line and texture. These supportive beginners drawing classes helps you to build real creative confidence while exploring different materials and styles.
Book now at - www.artsforhealth.co.nz...
Creative Spaces for Tweens
Support your child’s growth and well being with our tweens art therapy sessions. Designed for 9–12-year-olds, including home-schooled children or those finding school challenging, these sessions provide a safe, supportive space to explore creativity, express emotions, and build confidence. Through fun, hands-on activities and guided skill-building, our tweens art therapy helps young people develop resilience, social connection, and self-expression.
Whether your child is not currently attending school or simply needs a peaceful, encouraging environment, tweens art therapy offers meaningful experiences that promote growth, friendship, and well being. Join us and help your child thrive in a welcoming, supportive space with tweens art therapy.
Book now at www.artsforhealth.co.nz...
🎉The Riddler wants to hear from you 🫵
🧩 Got a riddle that can stump your Neighbourly community? Share your brain teasers with us and watch your neighbours scratch their heads 😕🤔❓
Send us your tricky puzzles!
Loading…
