Management secured for Domain

The management contract for Waipā’s premier reserve and events venue, Karāpiro Lake Domain, has been awarded to GL Events Ltd for another five years, with rights of renewal for a further 10 years subject to agreed performance measures being met.

GL Events Ltd, owned by deputy Mayor Liz Stolwyk and her husband Andrew Reymer, has managed the reserve for the past 19 years. The services agreement was awarded following an open market best practice procurement process. Council received four expressions of interest, with two going through to tender. Following the closing date, the other applicant withdrew.

Property services manager, David Varcoe, said the process leading up to this contract award was robust.

“Council engaged independent probity assurance services from Audit New Zealand to ensure the integrity of the process was maintained. We also followed public sector procurement best practices. We know how valued this reserve is to our community, and we need to ensure it’s looked after for years to come.”

The recreational reserve, locally known as Mighty River Domain, sits on the shores of Lake Karāpiro, on the Waikato River. The site holds historical significance for Waipā and is home to national and international water sport events, the Sir Don Rowlands centre for indoor events, a café, campsites and outdoor activities such as high ropes and volleyball.

“This contractor knows the facility inside and out. We’re confident that they will take care of the land. They’ll continue to work alongside mana whenua, neighbours, and other stakeholders to maintain the reserve's status as a significant reserve, venue and campground,” Varcoe said.

Council received approval to award the contract from the Office of the Auditor-General pursuant to the Local Authorities (Members’ Interests) Act 1968, for the first five years. The contract will commence on Monday, December 18.