Keep Dunedin Beautiful Visitor Attraction Awards

Dunedin – The winners of the first Keep Dunedin Beautiful Visitor Attraction Awards have been announced.

On Tuesday, 20 November, three judges visited the participating attractions, which were judged mainly on the first impression their attraction has for visitors. This included the visual appeal of any buildings, gardens, car parks, walkways and window displays from the outside and at reception areas. The judges also inspected the rubbish and recycling facilities and their availability to the public.

There were two categories based on 2011 visitor numbers - category A (under 50,000 visitors), and category B (over 50,000 visitors).

The judges were:

* i-SITE Visitor Centre team leader Louise Van De Vlierd

* DCC Contract Supervisor Peter Moroney

* Keep Dunedin Beautiful co-ordinator Darlene Thomson

The task of deciding winners was difficult as almost all attractions were of a very high standard. The winners are:

Category A

Winner - Orokonui Ecosanctuary

The judges felt that, for such a new attraction, there was an awful lot on offer. They were particularly impressed with the almost ‘no waste to landfill’ policy and the fact that every part of the attraction was in keeping with its ecology, from flax sugar holders to recycled Macrocarpa tables and benches.

Runner up - Lady Thorn Dell

There is just so much to like about this attraction particularly at this time of the year with the rhododendrons at their peak. It is obvious that a lot of care and attention goes into this beautiful unassuming picnic spot. The fact that it is all done by dedicated volunteers only makes the attraction that much more impressive.

Category B Winner - Larnach Castle

This was the stand out winner. ‘Immaculate’ was a word used by one judge and it truly is, from the smallest blade of grass to the stonework on the building. The judges were also impressed by the composting facilities on site.

Ms Thomson says, “Other notable mentions were Fletcher House. It was a real pleasure to visit and see such a well cared for historical property. The same could be said for Carey’s Bay Historic Hotel which also boasts an extensive art collection.

“It was certainly a great day out for the judges, reinforcing the fact that Dunedin is a beautiful place to live and to visit.”

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