With Breen Construction set to do the build, and a recent major funding boost, it’s happy days for the Manuherikia Valley Community Hub project – coming under the $5.2 million budget.
This positive development was shared at the Vincent Community Board meeting (29 April 2025) by Central Otago District Council Property Officer Tara Bates.
“This is a great milestone towards achieving the community’s vision for this important project,” Ms Bates said.
“Securing a contractor under budget brings us one step closer to bringing the hub to life.”
The final project budget will be confirmed once all funding is secured, and the building contract is made unconditional.
The project recently received a significant funding boost of $540,000 from the Otago Community Trust. Additionally, the sale of the old Omakau Hall and the remaining hall account funds - totalling around $200,000 - have been added to the project fund. In total, $2.5 million has now been raised.
To cover a potential shortfall of up to $1.6 million, the Manuherikia Valleys Charitable Trust submitted a request for support through the Central Otago District Council’s 2025–2034 Long-term Plan consultation, with a decision expected by the end of June. The Trust is also actively pursuing additional funding from Central Lakes Trust and Lotto NZ.
Once complete, the 948-square-metre facility will replace the existing Omakau hall and rugby clubrooms. It will feature a 200-seater hall, meeting rooms, commercial kitchen, function room with bar, gym, changing rooms, and a stage for school performances—serving not just Omakau but the wider Central Otago region.
Construction is anticipated to begin in late 2025, subject to final fundraising outcomes and ongoing negotiations with the contractor.
Ms Bates said the momentum behind the project reflects the strength of local support.
“This project has been driven by the passion and commitment of the community. It is exciting to see it getting closer to becoming a reality.”
