Carterton arts hub doors thrown open

Wai Steam NZ steampunk enthusiasts Linda Tilyard (left), Katey Salmond and Gaylene van Wijk befriend Masterton mayor Lyn Patterson. PHOTO/ALISA YONG

Toi Wairarapa has officially opened its new arts hub in Carterton.

Named "Heart of Arts" the gallery and community venue will play host to exhibitions, workshops and facilitate art education and youth involvement in the arts.

Toi chairman and Carterton councillor Greg Lang, centre, speaking at the opening. PHOTOS/ALISA YONG

Last Friday night Kahungunu ki Wairarapa general manager PJ Devonshire blessed the High St space, with a "house opening" prayer, followed by a waiata.

Residents, artists and local dignitaries packed the venue to admire the art works and hear Toi's chairman Greg Lang declare the gallery open.

"This creative hub is going to be awesome -- it's going to be constantly changing. It's the springboard we really need for Carterton to really rock and become the heart of the arts," Mr Lang said.

Guests were treated to a surprise "flash mob" performance from Carterton's Three Mile Brass and then entertained by Wairarapa band Spank.

Heart of Arts will be manned by volunteers seven days a week and run by Toi co-ordinator Corrinne Oliver.