About the Project
Hall 1950's
Methven Heritage Centre showing the i-site and Cafe
Methven Town Centre looking
towards Mt Hutt
Photo by Bill Irwin
Background
At Methven, the Southern Alps rise abruptly out of the fertile Canterbury Plains. Located in the lee of Mount Hutt with some of the country's best skiing on the doorstep, this unique geography is reflected in the town’s dual roles; a dynamic base for snow sports and outdoor tourism, and a bustling farming town in the heart of the Canterbury 'food basket'.
For more than 50 years the Mt Hutt Memorial Hall has played an important role in the town and its surrounding community, but was in serious need of refurbishment.
Since 2004, a group of dedicated locals have been working on a project to transform the hall into an exceptional new facility that will serve the community and its many visitors, socially, culturally, and economically into the future.
While retaining the Hall's memorial status and role as a venue for performances and events, the existing building is being extended by 1062m2 and upgraded to include an array of new facilities, and create an exceptional new destination for the region.
The purpose built 'NZ's Alpine and Agriculture Encounter' will house an interactive exhibition to celebrate the two industries that have shaped Methven - agriculture and snow sports.
The centre will also be home to the 'NZ Snow Heritage Collection', a national archive of snow sports history, memorabilia film and photography.
The development will also include a new theatrette and 'Hall of Memories' - a permanent exhibition honouring those who served during the wars.
Education will be a key focus, with a comprehensive programme of 'Learning Outside the Classroom' activities for primary and secondary pupils, in areas such as agriculture, geology, social sciences and tourism. There will also be the opportunity for satellite activities giving visitors the chance to extend their experience, visit working farms, or explore significant local geology, geography, flora and fauna.
The existing Mt Hutt Memorial Hall & Auditorium has been refurbished to a high standard and will provide a spectacular setting for conferences, events and functions.
Methven i-SITE and visitor centre is located at the southern end of the complex along with the new Heritage Cafe.
The landscaped grounds will open out to the town centre and provide a gathering place for locals and visitors alike, and a venue for outdoor events in what is set to be an exciting new hub for the district.