Wheels turning on giant bike repair

15 October 2014

Taupo District Council agreed to contribute $2500 towards the repair of the giant bike sculpture provided its future is formally secured through a Memorandum of Understanding consistent with other public artworks.

The bike was vandalised and badly damaged in February on the eve of the IronMan New Zealand event. Councillors had resolved to accept an offer from a local engineer to repair the bike for the cost of materials only, however, the process was stalled following an approach from the community group responsible for its construction. They wanted to see the repairs undertaken by the original artist.

The council acknowledged that request and rescinded its previous resolution also offering to pay $2500 to the original artist once the repair is complete and the bike is returned to its original location. This figure is the same as the estimated cost for materials.

Mayor David Trewavas said getting the bike fixed was a priority and the council had the best interests of the community in mind.

We want to see the sculpture repaired and back where it belongs at the top of the hill at the least cost to ratepayers, but with due respect to the group that initiated the project, he said.

At the same time, we have to be consistent in our approach to all of our public artworks.

ENDS

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:

Lisa Nairne Communications Manager 07 376 0762 027 839 8410

Vicki Waterhouse Communications Advisor 07 376 0718 027 484 2549

Taupo District Council

www.taupo.govt.nz