Grahame Hall said he was thrilled that RECT was able to initiate the project with the announcement last year to kick start the events centre project with a sizable contribution.

“It’s really exciting to know that the $21m project has now been given the go-ahead by the council and that other fundraising partners have come on board to support the development. The community has really taken the project to heart.

“It’s an ambitious project but one that Rotorua will have considerable pride in when finished. We believe it is going to be the best events centre of its type in the country and it will not only be an important facility for local groups and organisations, but it will draw national and international events to Rotorua.

Mayor Kevin Winters paid tribute to the trustees of RECT for their generous support of the project and extended the thanks of the community. “RECT is such an important element in the lives of the people of Rotorua and we should all celebrate the way it adds significantly to the wellbeing of this community. This is another exceptional example of that support.

“The Rotorua Energy Events Centre is going to put Rotorua on the map as this country’s pre-eminent events destination. Not only will the events it attracts help boost our local economy, but the building project itself will provide employment and economic opportunities for Rotorua.”

Construction of the events centre is expected to get underway in the New Year with completion targeted for early 2006.