A 50-year-old wharf shed on remote D’Urville Island has had a much needed makeover.
The shed, at Kapowai Wharf, is a crucial link for the isolated community of about 50 residents. It is the only public shelter near the wharf - the main access point for both locals and visitors to the island.
Councillor Sally Arbuckle, who visited D’Urville Island to see first-hand the benefits of Council’s Small Townships programme said the shed was a great community asset.
“It’s a drop off and storage area for the community’s post and deliveries to keep dry and secure as well as a place where locals and visitors can wait for the barge or boat to arrive,” she said.
Marlborough District Sounds ward Councillor Barbara Faulls said it was wonderful to see the work completed.
“I am thrilled that this project has come to fruition,” she said. “The D’Urville residents never ask for much but this refurbishment will make a huge difference for them.”
Terry Savage, Chairman of the D’Urville Island Residents and Ratepayers Association, said renovating the shed had tidied up the area and he thanked Small Townships for pushing the work along.
“The shed is what we require waiting for transport and it’s our mail room,” he said.
The shed is finished in a colour palette that fits in with Council guidelines designed to protect, maintain, and enhance the landscapes of Marlborough.
