Commemoration funding to revitalise Cenotaph

1 May 2014

A grant of over $125,000 is set to ensure the Taupō District commemorates the 100-year anniversary of the start of World War 1 in style.

A joint-project between Taupō District Council, the Returned Services Association, Ngati Tuwharetoa and the Taupō branch of the Society of Genealogists will see the revitalisation of the cenotaph outside the Great Lake Centre, and a number of educational activities hosted by the library and museum.

Mayor David Trewavas said the $125,900 in funding was approved by the Lottery World War One Commemorations and Environment and Heritage Committee at its April meeting.

The project would include revitalising the cenotaph and laying a paved poppy at its base, holding a museum exhibition focussed on the Taupō tales from WW1, and launching 'kete' a digital repository for the district's arts, cultural heritage resources and knowledge.

"These projects are significant in that they will allow people an opportunity to share in WW1 Centenary commemorations, and to understand the significance and the impact it had on the Taupō District," said Mr Trewavas.

"We expect this project will bring people together at times of remembrance and capture the history and stories so they can be shared with future generations.

"We are seeing the crowds at Anzac Day services grow bigger every year and this year's centenary is a fantastic opportunity to ensure those who gave the ultimate sacrifice are both honoured in a fitting way and that their stories will live on forever."

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Lisa Nairne Communications Manager 07 376 0762 027 839 8410