Council wins funding for Pirongia toilets
11 September 2018
Half a million dollars in funding has now been allocated to build new public toilets for the Pirongia township.
Today the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) allocated Waipa District Council $250,000 of its Tourism Infrastructure Fund for a new toilet facility in Pirongia. The fund supports the development of public infrastructure used by tourists and visitors to the district.
Council has already budgeted the remaining $250,000 needed for the project through its recent 10-Year Plan.
Council's community facilities manager Bruce Airey said the funding was a massive win for the town, where the toilets have been struggling to keep up with the increasing numbers of tourists making a comfort stop.
With the proximity to Waitomo Caves and other tourist destinations, these facilities are well-used by tourists and locals alike. This funding will enable us to create a purpose-built facility to cater to the demand and we'll also be able to resolve the issues dealing with the waste from the current facility.
Airey said Council will be working closely with the Pirongia community to determine the best location for the toilets when design gets underway.
There's still a bit of work to do before Council will have a timeframe for construction. We know these toilets are needed and we are keen to get this project started as soon as possible.