First step taken for Japanese garden relocation

The first step in re-establishing the Fukuoka Friendship Garden has been taken with the appointment of councillor Cathy Casey as the chair of the Fukuoka Friendship Garden Steering Group.

Cr Casey, who was confirmed as chairperson at the group’s inaugural meeting on Wednesday evening, says they will focus on the most appropriate location, design and management options for the future of the garden.

“It’s time for us to move on from the events of the last few months and turn this unfortunate situation into an opportunity for more people to enjoy this special gift from Fukuoka City for many years to come,” she says.

The steering group will spend the next few months reviewing a list of possible locations for the garden, including potential reinstatement at the Auckland Zoo site, and make a recommendation to the council on its future.

They will consider the original gift, accessibility, cultural context, the impact it might have on a new location and ongoing upkeep and management, and will seek input from interested stakeholder groups.

The Fukuoka Friendship Garden Steering Group is made up of three Auckland Council councillors, a member from the Independent Maori Statutory Board and two members of the Friends of Fukuoka Gardens. It is supported by council staff, including representatives from council’s Parks, Sports and Recreation department, Auckland Zoo, and external horticultural specialists.

The group expects to make a recommendation to the Governing Body in August.

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