The Gibbston Community Association is leading the way in a joint venture with Transit NZ, Queenstown Lakes District Council and Telecom.

The small community group is developing an historic information lay by at what is known as Node 2 of the Queenstown Entrances Plan. It will be the first node of the plan to be completed.

Located at the intersection of Coal Pit Road and State Highway 6, the lay by includes a gravelled car park, landscaping, interpretive signage, and a replica stone hut built to mitigate an existing Telecom tank.

Mayor Clive Geddes says that the association's role is vital. "Due to resource constraints within Council, the association's commitment to the project will now mean that it can be completed much earlier than planned," said Geddes.

Transit NZ also praises the group's initiative. "The proposed lay by will not only greatly enhance the surrounding area but will provide travellers with valuable information on the history of Gibbston," John Jarvis, Area Engineer for Central Otago said.

"Obviously, we can't do this without the full support of Council, Transit and Telecom. Equally important to us are the thirteen individuals and businesses who have agreed to contribute over $34,000 in materials and services toward the project," said Association Chairman Susan Stevens.

"This is an ambitious project for a small community. We?re counting on receiving a favourable response to our grant application for the remaining $26,000 that we need," said Stevens.

The project has also received the support of NZ Historic Places Trust and Lakes District Museum. Geoff Bellamy, Area Manager Otago/Southland NZ Historic Places Trust says, "The information lay by will give both domestic and international visitors a valuable insight into the settlement history of Gibbston and its connection with the Otago Goldfields era."

Said Stevens, "It is our mission to protect, preserve and promote the unique character of Gibbston. Helping Council realise their plans for Node 2 allows us to tidy a highly visible intersection at the heart of our community. The information signs will educate people about both our historic and present settlement. Some will be surprised to discover that we have 37 vineyards and 7 tasting rooms in Gibbston."

Transit NZ has already realigned Coal Pit Road to improve safety at the intersection. They will supply blue and white information signs directing drivers to the lay by to encourage stopping in safe areas along SH6.

"We're planning to finish the lay by before our garden tour on Sunday, November 19th. Our first garden tour in 2003 was our most successful fundraiser ever and we're hoping to raise even more money this year. All going well, we won't need it for the lay by and can put it toward the walking track that we are developing from the bungy bridge to the Nevis Bluff," said Stevens.

ENDS

For further information please contact Susan Stevens Phone: 03 441 8919 Fax: 03 441 8940 E-mail: terymesu@xtra.co.nz

By: Sarah