Te Puke Kiwifruit Capital of the World Heritage Hub Progresses

The Te Puke Kiwifruit Capital of the World Heritage Hub project has reached an important milestone with the formation of an incorporated society earlier this month. The new organization now has a constitution, business and strategic plans, policies, job descriptions, bank accounts, and authorized signatories, enabling it to apply for grants to fund exhibitions and development.

The project team is in negotiations to lease the bottom floor of the historic Te Puke Capital Theatre on Jellicoe Street. The space will feature one room permanently dedicated to the history of kiwifruit industry development, with additional rooms for rotating exhibitions celebrating other district histories on a three-monthly basis. Free admission will ensure everyone can access Te Puke's heritage, with a donation box available for those wishing to contribute to further development.

Once a building is secured and a manager appointed, the team plans to hold a public meeting to share plans and invite community input. Spokesperson Sue Matthews welcomed the newest project team member Christine Clement and thanked corporate sponsors including Seeka (gold sponsor at $20K) and bronze sponsors including Hills Lab, Zespri, Eastpack, and DMS. Anyone wishing to donate kiwifruit heritage items can contact Sue Matthews at matapara-@xtra.co.nz.

Originally published in Te Puke News by Sun Media.