It’s a case of small steps, but the creation of a Te Puke Kiwifruit Capital of the World Heritage Hub is progressing well.

Negotiating to secure a suitable building and the formation of an incorporated society are the two latest steps.

The project team is in early discussions to lease the bottom floor of this historic Te Puke Capital Theatre in Jellicoe St for developing the heritage hub

Earlier this month, an incorporated society was formed with a constitution, business and strategic plans, policies and job descriptions, a bank account and signatories.

“This also means we now have the ability to start applying for grants to enable the exhibitions to be designed and executed to a high standard,” spokeswoman Sue Matthews said.

Kiwifruit

The main focus of the heritage hub will be to concentrate on celebrating the kiwifruit story, and this would become a permanent feature.

“We feel we need to start relatively small to enable us to be open to the public as soon as possible.”

There will be free admission to enable everyone to enjoy Te Puke’s heritage, while a donation box will be provided for those who want to contribute to further development.

“We are in early discussions to lease [part of the cinema] building, and this building has one room that would be permanently dedicated to the amazing history around the development of kiwifruit industry.

“Once this is established, there is additional room which will provide opportunities to add exhibitions that celebrate other amazing district histories, and we plan to change aspects of these exhibitions on a three-monthly basis.

“We have identified the three most important things are to lease a building, advertise for a manager, and start applying for grants — including for a curator position.”

Precious items

Matthews said many people had indicated they had precious kiwifruit icons they want to donate and they needed to know they would be correctly recorded, stored and managed.

In the meantime, anyone wishing to can email Sue Matthews at matapara-@xtra.co.nz with the details.

“Once we have secured a building and have a manager, we plan to hold a public meeting so everyone can see what is planned and be able to contribute ideas, ask those questions and those who wish to play an active part in the future of this amazing celebration of our community can do so.”

There is a Te Puke Heritage Hub Facebook page, and a webpage is in development.

Matthews said the project team wanted to thank its corporate sponsors who had made a three-year commitment.

Gold sponsors ($20K) SEEKA. Bronze $(5K) Hills Lab, Zespri, Eastpack, DMS, Matapara (Roger & Sue Matthews) and Marmatsar TRUST (Paul and Natalie Hickson and family). We would also like to acknowledge those who have become friends with a $1000 donation

“With pledges at just over $80,000 we feel confident that once the community see the heritage hub is about to have a building, a manager and some exhibition space, the last of the pledges will flow to get us to the $100,000″.