Changchun leaders at pavillion opening. Beautiful asset to the town...
Kuripuni’s Chinese Pavilion has been officially opened today (19 December), with representatives from Masterton’s sister city, Changchun, and the Chinese embassy on hand for the event.
The pavilion has been a long-term project, with the Changchun Gardening Bureau providing eight tonnes of authentic roof tiles several years ago, along with plans for the pavilion.
Former district councillor and member of the New Zealand-China Friendship Society Jonathan Hooker worked with project manager Dave Borman on the project.
The challenge was installing the tiles, but retired building inspector Hans De Vries and fourth-generation brick-layer Len Lamb excelled in translating a traditional Chinese design to meet New Zealand building requirements.
Opening the pavilion, Masterton Mayor Lyn Patterson said the extended construction time had been worth it.
“This job was not without its challenges but it is a testament to those involved that we now have a beautiful space that I believe people will enjoy for years to come,” she said.
“It is a permanent reminder of our close links with the community of Changchun.”
Masterton architect Darryl Silverwood ensured the final design complied with the New Zealand building code, and Masterton District council providing $82,000 in funding, with additional funding coming from Trust House, the Masterton Trust Lands Trust, and private donations.
Today’s Mind-Bender is the Last of the Year! Can You Guess It Before Everyone Else? 🌟🎁🌲
I dance in the sky with green and gold, a spectacle few are lucky to behold; I’m best seen in the south, a celestial sight—what am I, lighting up the New Zealand night?
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SHOP LOCAL THIS XMAS - FARMERS MARKET SOLWAY SHOWGROUNDS MASTERTON
Come along to our Farmers Market & Crafts held EVERY Saturday Rain or Shine
YES we are open on the 27th December 2025
BRING YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS ALONG FOR MORNING TEA AND COFFEE, AND HAVE A BROWSE AROUND OUR WONDERFUL MARKET
HOT OFF THE PRESS:
DANIEL’S SPUDS are back at the market this week. Agria potatoes freshly dug this week.
And of course, there is always lots on offer: Hot Food, fresh Coffee, Fresh Vege stall, Yummy Honey, fresh bread to name just a few.
We have a fabulous array of creative gifts on display and available for purchase.
Don’t miss the awesome Paua art, wooden toys, embroidered tea towels, olive oil, Crocheted toys, woollen items to mention just a few
We even have live music to get your toes tapping and we are always ready for a friendly chat. For a great day out or an early morning visit we have something for everyone.
We have a new Facebook page:
Wairarapa Farmers Market 2025 - have a look and view our newsletter for this week.
We also have a Eftpos terminal where you can access cash for your Farmers Market purchases. Come and have a look, I’m sure you will be pleasantly surprised.
Look forward to seeing you.
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