The premier exhibition space in the new MAHARA Gallery will be known as the Coastlands Gallery in recognition of a contribution of $150,000 to the redevelopment project by Coastlands Shoppingtown.
Mahara Gallery Trust Board Chairman, Gordon Shroff, says the sponsorship is a significant step forward in the project to redevelop the gallery.
“Not only is it a significant boost to our funding, it’s also an expression of confidence in the Gallery by the leading retail outlet in the Kāpiti community.”
The sponsorship applies to internal exhibition space on the ground floor of the new building. One of four exhibition galleries, it will host major exhibitions and occasional touring shows.
The building itself will continue to be known as MAHARA.
Coastlands Chairman Richard Cathie says the Paraparaumu shopping centre is delighted to be involved in the project.
“Part of our policy is to support quality developments that will enhance Kāpiti as a place to be. This project is a perfect fit.”
Gordon Shroff said that as well as the Coastlands sponsorship, the Gallery Board has been fortunate in securing significant grants from the Ministry for Culture and Heritage, NZ Lottery Grants Board, and a variety of trusts and private individuals.
“At this stage, we are now only four percent away from meeting our share of the project cost,” said Gordon Shroff.
“However, we are not resting on our laurels. The Trust is continuing with its fundraising, recognising that every dollar we raise helps us meet unexpected costs and gives us a chance to better resource the modest fixtures and fitting allowed for in the project budget.”
The Gallery rebuild is expected to be completed by the end of 2022 and the building open in the first quarter of 2023.
