Lawrence-Tuapeka Community Board members reacted with cautious excitement at their meeting yesterday, on receiving their first glimpse of a draft "destination experience" concept plan for Lawrence’s historic Gabriel’s Gully.
The 1861 gold rush began after Gabriel Read discovered significant reserves of the precious metal at the gully — which was granted category 1 heritage status in 2009.
The draft plans proposed "a compelling visitor experience" integrated with the Lawrence township, its historic gold rush Chinese Camp and the Clutha Gold Trail bike path extension, a council report said.
The proposal document suggested a phased approach of implementation over three to four years.
The document, prepared by Wellington consultant Chris Hay, said Lawrence needed more "context, branding and planning assistance" to improve its visitor experience.
This could include elements such as "a striking, branded call to action for a gold/heritage experience", and development of a hub to inform and direct visitors to the town’s various attractions.
Mr Hay had praise for gold rush centrepiece Gabriel’s Gully, as well as recommendations.
"The interpretation walk is a well organised and articulated trail — the trailhead is adequate but could be developed into a cornerstone information hub.
"Blue Spur is underdeveloped and could be developed ... to highlight social histories.
"There is a lack of connection to the Chinese Camp," he said.
Estimates in the proposal said trailheads, signage and sculpture for Gabriel’s Gully could cost between $1.6 million and $1.8 million; and $900,000 to $1.1 million for Blue Spur.
Redeveloping the town’s museum would add an additional $1.5 million-plus.
At yesterday’s meeting, board chairman Geoff Davidson said the concept was "pretty exciting" for the town.
"If that comes to fruition it should put us on the map as a tourist destination," he said.
Council chief executive Steve Hill emphasised the concepts, and budgetary estimates were a "starting point only".
Further consultation with stakeholders would take place before any decision was made, he said.
