Dannevirke: New hall roof boost for community

Akitio Beach

There may be less than 10 permanent residents at Akitio Beach but there is a wider, active community which swells over the summer months, relying on the community hall.

Now, with financial help from the Eastern and Central Community Trust, the hall will be be re-roofed before winter sets in.

The hall is used for myriad local activities and is also a popular camp base for schools from as far away as Masterton and Hastings, church groups and interest groups holding workshops. The New Zealand Army is also a regular user and four weddings have already been booked for this year.

"It is an excellent gathering place for the community, with accommodation for almost 50 people, and the community trust donation will ensure residents and visitors continue to use the hall," trust chairman Jonathan Bell said.

The hall has four dormitory's downstairs and a fully equipped kitchen, bar facilities, toilets and showers upstairs, with a balcony overlooking the sea. Two years ago, the community trust contributed $15,000 towards the cost of upgrading the dorms and showers.

Murray and Donna De'Admin moved to the area 20 years, when Murray began work on a farm and he is now the chairman of Akitio Recreation and Sports Club, which administers the hall. The couple are energetic fundraisers.

"It's wonderful being given $20,000 and it'll be the first time the hall has been re-roofed since we moved here 20 years ago," Donna said.

"We do a lot of fundraising, and there are a lot of volunteers who help with maintenance and we manage our funds very carefully to keep the hall in good condition."

The hall committee is working on plans to attract more groups to Akitio through the winter months.