NEWS September 2011:

The new Te Orewai Place site was officially opened on 30th June by the Minister of Disability Issues, Tariana Turia. This event was a tremendous success, blessed by cool but fine weather. The opening was signalled by the Minister cutting the ribbon over the gate to this new complex.

Speeches then followed, with Graham Martin, the Avonside House Trust Board Chairman providing details about the background to the project, and the way forward for Avonside House following the earthquakes.

Eamonn Waters, Donations Manager from the Canterbury Community Trust then spoke about the Canterbury Community Trust’s contribution to the project. Avonside House wholeheartedly concurred with Eamonn’s sentiments, because we also went ‘yeehaa’ when the Canterbury Community Trust made their most generous donation!

Although the Minister was not well enough to speak for the keynote speech, Nicky Wagner, the List MP for Christchurch Central, delivered the Minister’s speech on her behalf. The Carole King analogy of the ‘earth moving under our feet’ was most appropriate.

Click here to download the Minister's speech (120KB PDF).

A plaque to commemorate this official opening was then unveiled by the Minister.

The Archdeacon Anne Russell-Brighty then blessed all seven of the two-bedroom units and the administration office.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Finally, the opening concluded with a very enjoyable morning tea.

 

Avonside House would like to thank the residents and their families, staff, Trustees, vocational services, contractors, neighbours, funders, MPs and others associated with the project for participating in the opening. In particular, we would like to thank the Minister of Disability Issues, Tariana Turia for taking time out of her busy schedule to open Te Orewai Place. A special thanks also goes to Daryl Stanley from Westpac for providing the marquee, and for Archdeacon Anne Russell-Brighty for giving the blessing.

 

 

View of the Avon River from the new Te Orewai Place complex.

A quick note needs to be made about the earthquake recovery. The Demolition of the Hostel is nearly complete. Avonside House has recently had some good news when the majority of the residents’ smaller possessions were recovered from the Hostel. The insurance policy for the residents will help cover the cost of replacing property that was not recoverable or damaged.