The committee behind the community-owned Lake Hāwea Community Centre has put out a call for support from residents as it struggles with an increasingly busy schedule.

Lake Hāwea Community Centre (LHCC) is the only community-owned and run centre in the Upper Clutha, and committee member Liz Munn said it is “the heart of the village”.

“Today there was cooking in the kitchen, pilates, and line dancing. There are parties, occasional weddings, and funerals. We’ve created a venue for Kahu Youth; on Friday we have done things for families; there’s a big Christmas festival coming up and there’s a popular older people’s group. 

“We also hold Arts On Tour concerts, markets, art classes, community meals, regular monthly ‘meet and greet’ drinks, and a programme for new residents who come from outside New Zealand to meet others.

Residents enjoy a Christmas display at the community centre. PHOTO: Chris Champion

All of this is done by a very small team of long-serving volunteers, many of whom are in their seventies. 

“We need help and new ideas from younger people,” she said.

Liz said it was likely many Lake Hāwea residents were not aware the LHCC is community-owned and funded. The LHCC cost around $1.5M initially, and it’s now valued at $9M, including the adjacent tennis courts.

The committee has undertaken “constant fundraising” to ensure the centre is a “really good venue”, she said, and as well as being a hub for community activities, it is designated as a key site in the event of an emergency for the provision of aid and shelter.

Generations collaborate during a repair event at the community centre. PHOTO: Supplied

The committee is holding its AGM on Saturday November 25 (4pm at the centre), and is hoping interested people will attend to meet the current committee members and find out how to get involved. 

They are looking for assistance with technology and computer systems; sound, lighting and staging; bar operations; catering; events; facilities and maintenance; gardening; communications and marketing; and community outreach. 

Without more help, the committee may need to consider offering ownership and/or management of the centre to Queenstown Lakes District Council (QLDC), Liz said. 

“This could mean increased hire charges, limited accessibility and greatly reduced community-based events and regular programmes,” she said. 

“It’s not our favourite option.”

Anyone interested in volunteering can head along to the AGM or contact Liz Munn (02755 65513) or André Meyer (02788 33119).