Wānaka Performing Arts and Culture Centre Trust spokesman Michael Sidey has released 10 site options the trust has been studying for its proposed $60million arts centre.
In a newsletter to trust supporters this week, Mr Sidey said Queenstown Lakes District Deputy Mayor Quentin Smith had advised at a trust meeting there was no funding in the current long-term plan (LTP) and the trust should target the three-year period starting 2026.
Mr Sidey said Cr Smith also advised the trust should make site options publicly known.
Wānaka Upper-Clutha Community Board chairman Simon Telfer had also informally suggested the trust release the sites, Mr Sidey said.
‘‘[Mr Telfer] indicated the importance of site identity now that the feasibility study had confirmed financial viability and we had determined that we wish to proceed with the project,’’ Mr Sidey said.
The trust formed in 2021 to investigate building a 500-seat performing arts centre by 2029, including a 120-seat rehearsal theatre, visual arts gallery, foyer space, and enough space for a 700-seat theatre if and when needed.
Horwath HTL has prepared a feasibility study.
In May this year, the trust sought $30million over three years from the council’s $51.27million arts centre budget.
Mr Sidey was optimistic the council might still indicate support before 2026.
Factors considered included site ownership, zoning, car parks, visibility, access, proximity to hospitality and influences on capital costs.
‘‘It was important to continually reflect that the Wānaka landscape will be very different in 10 years’ time, than it is now,’’ he said.
He said no decisions had been made, as the trust was trying to understand the environment it could work in.
Partnership opportunities would be explored and when the council confirmed support, fundraising could begin, he said.
