Sponsored: Dual celebration planned

The opening of the Flaxbourne Heritage Centre on the Ward Village Green from 10am to 2pm this coming Friday April 11, is going to be a great celebration for the Ward community who have put so much effort into seeing it finally come to fruition following many years of planning.

During the Kaikoura earthquake, Flaxbourne’s local museum was destroyed and ever since, precious relics from the long history of the region going back 800 years, have been stored elsewhere including in people’s homes.

Led by the Flaxbourne Heritage Trust with support from a range of funding partners, local landowners, iwi, community groups, contractors, sponsors and donors, the area’s rich history can now be viewed in a brand-new purpose-built facility.

Also being celebrated is the opening of the Seddon to Ward section of the Whale Trail with a 10km round trip ride from The Whale Trail shelter in Ward to the magnificent Te Ruakanakana/Lake Elterwater and return.

The spectacular Whale Trail owes a debt to Dr John Forrest of Forrest Wines who conceived the idea of using the earthquake damaged original railway to create what will become a major destination for those who want to walk or cycle in this unique, spectacular, seaside landscape.

The Ward area suffered so much in the earthquake but these initiatives have given it a brand-new heart. It is a remarkable example of how such a small community of just a few hundred residents can mobilise to create projects that will be a huge asset to the Marlborough region as a whole while also preserving the area’s history for future generations.

Visitors are very welcome to the opening. There will be food and drink available along with plenty of fun and games including a lolly scramble, vintage cars, the Blackstone steam engine, kapa haka, bus rides, and tugs of war.