Locals will be asked at a public meeting at the town’s War Memorial Hall on Wednesday whether they wish to leave the facility in Clutha District Council ownership or transfer it into community hands.
Lawrence-Tuapeka ward councillor Jock Martin said the future of Clutha’s 34 community halls was up for consideration as part of the council’s long-term planning process.
He said 11 of those halls — including Waitahuna — were in council ownership at present, and the remainder received operating grants from the council.
Although the future management of all the facilities would need to be considered as part of planning, he said his current focus was on Waitahuna War Memorial Hall.
"This is a great little hall that’s been well-maintained as a community facility by its committee and volunteers.
"The committee feels a big decision like this shouldn’t rest on its shoulders alone, so we’re asking the wider community to come along and have their say at next week’s meeting."
He said many Lawrence-Tuapeka residents felt an affiliation with Waitahuna — himself included.
"I spent my childhood here, and can remember waiting at the hall for buses, and attending concerts, weddings, school events and the like.
"I even spent my 21st [birthday] here."
He said rural community halls remained relevant, and required support from residents to survive.
"Like many places, Waitahuna has lost its shops and other facilities down the years. Halls are critical for places to retain a sense of community."
Former Waitahuna resident Elaine Crawford, who now lives in Lawrence, said the hall remained well used.
"It was built around 1953, thanks to a community effort, in order to mark the sacrifices of local soldiers. It’s still well used, and a 90th birthday celebration was held there just last week."
The meeting will take place at the hall at 7.30pm on Wednesday.
