Final funding for Meteor found

The Meteor Theatre in Hamilton was granted a further $26,292 by the council on Thursday, which means New Zealand’s largest black box theatre will reopen on time.

The motion passed nine votes to four, with councillor Angela O’Leary highlighting the importance of Hamilton’s arts community.

“I want to be part of a council that is prepared, and absolutely open to listening to the community when they need us,” said O’Leary.

The money was needed when asbestos and unforeseen structural issues were found  during earthquake strengthening of the theatre, creating a shortfall of $56,292. It got $30,000 from Grassroots Trust, with the council making up the remainder.

The theatre is run by One Victoria Trust, after being gifted it from the council in 2013.

“I think it’s an outstanding example of what a well run, well governed community trust can do when it takes over something from the city council,” said councillor Garry Mallet.

The mayor opposed the grant, saying the deed of the trust made it clear no further money would be given by council.

Cr Paula Southgate supported the funding, and acknowledged the work they had done to raise funds in the past, including the bake sale she was involved in.

“It was a sad state of affairs when one of our most productive theatres has to run a cake stall,” said Southgate.

O’Leary said she has been a big supporter of the arts in Hamilton, and said that the theatre has been growing.

“They have annihilated the KPIs that were set for them when we gifted over this theatre,” said O’Leary.

Deputy Mayor Martin Gallagher also backed the move, and said the Meteor gives richness to Hamilton’s tapestry.

The Meteor is set to open on May 19.