A group of artists in the Hauraki were preparing to raise funds for repair and replacement work needed on their premises.
The Paeroa Society of Arts is set to host its first ever Christmas Extravaganza and Fundraiser event on December 14 to raise money for a roof replacement and earthquake strengthening at its premises.
Society president Jan Clark told The Profile it was an old building approaching its 100 year milestone in 2025.
The society needed to replace the roof, which was going to cost around $18,000 according to a quote from 18 months ago, she said.
“So that’s a big expense.”
They also had the earthquake strengthening to take care of, for which Jan said they had applied for funding and also fundraised for the retrofit plans, which would cost around $18,000 to $20,000.
It was a former council building, but as it is owned by the society, “it’s totally on us… We have to look after it”, she said.
“But I think for us to be able to get some money over the next few months to get our roof done, it would be amazing if we could get it done before winter.”
The Christmas Extravaganza is one way the society and its members hope to raise money.
People could expect to find stalls outside the building with goods for sale, such as plants, baking, and jams – and the chance to enter some Christmas raffles.
Jan said they would be offering gift wrapping for items purchased too.
“We’re going to have all our sale items from our artists as well,” she said, which will be on display in the art room at the back of the building at reduced prices for Christmas.
“[People will] be able to have a look at the behind the scenes,” she said, and would also have the opportunity to meet some of the artists.
“We’re having quite a few people come in. We’re all volunteers, and we’re all the members of our society and the ones that do the work here,” she said.
“So we’re hoping for a lovely, big, fine, wonderful day,” she said.
Gallery committee member Jessica Lines said it was the first time they’d ever tried anything like it.
It will also be an opportunity to raise awareness about the society within the community.
“We’re just trying something new because I think sometimes people don’t realise that we’re here,” she said.
The society, which has around 60 members, was quite blessed to have its own gallery, Jessica said.
Some places didn’t have their own space to display their work, she said.
“So, it’s a good asset to the community.”
DETAILS: The Christmas Extravaganza and Fundraiser, 9.30am to 2pm, December 14 at The Paeroa Society of Arts, 109 Normanby Rd, Paeroa.
