Media Release - FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Late last week, contractors Liddell Contracting informed Westland District Council of anticipated delays to the completion of the Hokitika Cenotaph. Originally, Liddell Contracting were confident the work would be completed in time for Anzac Day on 25 April. However, based on the design requirements to achieve earthquake safety, recent changes to the scope of work have extended the completion date.
Liddell Branch General Manager, Anna Liddell says, “While we had the best intentions in suggesting this monument would be reinstated for the 2023 Anzac Day celebrations, the added level of design complexity to meet the EQ requirements and ground conditions have made this goal unachievable at this time. We apologise for the extended timeline and acknowledge the significance of this monument to RSA members and the Hokitika residents. Works will continue to ensure the upgraded monument will be completed without delay.”
Council, the Hokitika Westland RSA and Liddell Contracting met on Wednesday to review the situation and agree on a solution for the RSA’s Anzac Day plans.
“It was fair to say that the RSA took on board the challenges that our contractors have faced and were not fazed by the situation as they already had an alternative plan,” says Chief Executive Simon Bastion. “We have been informing them of the progress over the last few weeks, and we are disappointed that the Cenotaph will not be ready for them as we had expected. In our discussion, Liddell Contracting offered an alternative solution: erecting the base and plinth and clearing the ground of current construction, which would resume again after Anzac Day. The preference of the RSA is to go ahead with the dawn ceremony at the Veterans section of the Hokitika Cemetery at Seaview.
We will continue to work with the RSA to update any missing names before reassembling the plinth and organise a formal blessing and service. The RSA committee has also invited us to attend the next RSA meeting to discuss the design and challenges.”
Karen Burrows, Hokitika Westland RSA secretary, says, “The RSA appreciate the commitment from the Council to upgrade the monument to ensure it is safe and can stand the test of time for posterity. The open communication is welcome. We look forward to blessing the Cenotaph once the project is complete.”
ENDS
Media enquiries to:
Emma Rae, Strategy and Communications Advisor
Emma.rae@westlanddc.govt.nz