As at Tuesday 28 June 2016 we have had nearly 600 people express their support for keeping the grandstand! This is a touch over 15% of the people who “usually” live in Golden Bay and we are extremely grateful to you all. While we await the decision of Heritage NZ regarding TDC’s application to destroy the grandstand we continue our research both into the grandstand itself and other ways we can use to increase its chances of survival. Councils and A&P Associations around the country have responded to our request for information about their own grandstands and we have received comments such as 'What an amazing grandstand. Don’t you dare let whoever demolish it!' from as far away as Gore. The local community continues to show its support for the retention of the grandstand with some spirited debate on the Takaka Noticeboard Facebook site. One comment in particular caught our attention: “Pressure is needed to publicly put the value of this building in front of people. We need to learn from how the Maori culture respects its ancestors and recognises the value of what they have left us. The best of our produce over the 117 years has been brought here. It has been the gathering place for young and old, the meeting place of friends not seen often... As a Pakeha culture we value so little of our history that is my point. A plaque in place of our heritage does not cut it for me.” We are continuing our efforts to reach a solution that works for everyone. Any questions, information, ideas or suggestions please feel free to contact us on 03 525 8304 or 027 384 8165. Again, thank you so much for your support, it has been very humbling. Two Little Old Ladies