Methven Heritage Centre

The opening of the new visitor attraction in Methven was very successful, with around 250 people enjoying the highly anticipated first preview of the NZ Alpine & Agriculture Encounter.

The Honorable Kate Wilkinson, Minister of Conservation opened the attraction, saying “That the attraction would be well utilised by school groups and visitors to the area.”

Chairman of the Methven Heritage Association, Graham Robertson spoke of the large number of people who had contributed to the project over the eight years of development. He spoke of the important roles of the architect, Stewart Ross, the designers, Storyinc. and builders Bradfords in achieving a quality job. Project Managers, Roxane Gajadhar, and latterly Coffey International were also key players in the successful completion of the three stages.

Many of the those attending were impressed by the high standard of the exhibition and enjoyed the variety available in the new attraction.

The attraction is now open daily from 10 – 5pm and tickets can be purchased from the Methven i-SITE counter.

The local’s Season’s Pass which allows people resident in the Ashburton District to return as many times as they like within the year, can be purchased from the Methven Heritage Centre office. Phone 3029666 for details.

New Zealand’s own Will Martin, announces his first ever performances in the South Island.

At twenty-six, he’s already packed in a lifetime of paying dues. Dedicated study of musical styles and vocal training of the highest calibre, together with an active ‘performance apprenticeship’ honed on worldwide stages, has turned this born and bred Kiwi into the complete entertainer. Since making the decision at the age of 18 to follow his musical dream, Will has gone from strength to strength: from entertaining on cruise ships and rocking the Hard Rock Café, to leading countries in their respective national anthems at some of the world’s most prestigious sporting venues.

His 2007 debut album – ‘A New World’ was an epic collection of classical crossover songs, which simultaneously reflected Will’s origins and the scope of his unfaltering ambition. It also created history when it debuted on release in the UK at Number 1, making him the youngest tenor in musical history to top the classical charts.
His very new album currently in the Top 40 Chart, ‘Inspirations’ takes a fresh look at classic popular songs by songwriters such as Elton John, Stevie Wonder and Sting. He will perform songs from both of these albums on this 2-hour concert tour.

Tickets go on sale January 10 and are available from Methven i-Site.  General Admission.

The Methven Heritage Association is once again organising another fundraising adventure in the high country.  This time we will be visiting Arrowsmith Station, undertaking a five hour, four wheel drive trek through this magnificant area. 

For detailed trip information please contact the Methven Heritage Centre on 03 302 9666 or email us on info@methvenheritagecentre.co.nz

Methven’s got talent!

Methven’s many talented artists have contributed to an art exhibition at the Methven Heritage Centre. The exhibition is on throughout December and January so come on in and see what an artistically talented area we are. All the art is available for purchase, so if you are looking for that special Christmas gift, there is something for all tastes.

A wide range of work is on display, including an exquisite pencil drawing of a horse and rider by Clare Naden, painted Gumboots by Stanley Hands, beautiful landscapes by Karen Smith and Pania Brown and a village view of Methven by Rachel Vincent. Photographs on display include Bill Irwin’s work and some aspiring young photographers. The exhibition is on display in the Café and i-Site area of the Centre. The work is displayed on the brand new exhibit stands which were funded by a grant from the New Zealand Community Trust (NZCT).

Come and see the work on display and support our local artists. The exhibition is available for viewing 9.00am – 4.00pm daily.

The villagers and pirates confront one another over the treasure map.

Lauriston School students presented two polished performances of ‘Pirates of the Lauribean’ to delighted parents and friends in the Mt Hutt Memorial Hall auditorium yesterday. The children and staff worked hard to prepare a wonderful meal and superb entertainment. The Back Stage Crew ensured that the performance ran smoothly and the entire school contributed to a fabulous evening. Well done Lauriston School!

A Lauriston School production with all the proceeds being donated to the St Johns.

When: 23rd September 2010

  Cost:       Matinee 11am-  $10 per person (includes Lunch)

                   Evening 6.30pm – $20 per person (includes Dinner)

Buy tickets from Lauriston School and Methven Heritage Centre

A great response from the community to the “buy a chair ” campaign, and a generous grant from the Transpower Community Care Fund have seen 350 new chairs purchased for the Mt Hutt Memorial Hall and Methven Heritage Centre.

Jenny Saunders Events & Opertations Co-ordinator

Glittering new chairs on Gala Night opening

The new chairs have already seen good use and glittered in the theatrical lighting of the Opening Gala. Anyone who would like to dedicate a chair please contact Jenny Sanders.

Work is underway on designing the interactive displays which bring the interior of the exhibition spaces to life. Wellington exhibition designers Story Inc are developing some innovative and exciting ideas for New Zealand’s Alpine and Agriculture Encounter.

Story Inc is one of the most highly regarded exhibition design companies. Recently they attained international acclaim for their design of the NZ Pavilion at the world Expo in Shanghai.

Story Inc has an impressive portfolio of work throughout NZ and Asia and to see what else they are up to visit their website at www.storyinc.co.nz