The Hāwea Community Association (HCA) is restarting a project for new ‘welcome’ signs for Lake Hāwea and Hāwea Flat.

The original 1950s ‘Welcome to Hāwea’ sign was removed around eight years ago.

A statement from the HCA said it had been attempting to create new signage for some time, but it had run into roadblocks over agreeing on designs.

It was further delayed by the wait for the completion of the roundabout at the Hāwea Dam corner.

Now the HCA is kicking off the project again and it is looking for Hāwea residents to join its ‘design group’ for the signs.

The community association is also keen to hear from any members of the public who have ideas for the signs.

The project was last considered in 2022.

Early-stage concept designs were created which referenced local mountain ranges.

One of the concept designs from the 2022 planning. IMAGE: Supplied

The inclusion of a mountaineer was suggested in reference to Lake Hāwea resident Lydia Brady, who became the first woman to climb Mt Everest without supplemental oxygen in 1988.

There was also talk of including details which highlight the agricultural history of the area.

Anyone with ideas for the project, or who wants to join the design group or get more information, can get in touch at [email protected]