NEWS RELEASE
26 September 2008

Bucket Fountain to disappear for repairs

Cuba Street’s Bucket Fountain is about to do a disappearing act. The famous Wellington landmark will be dismantled early next week for a month-long refurbishment. It will be back – and looking better than ever – by the end of October.

The Council’s Parks and Gardens Manager, Paul Andrews, says the fountain needs sprucing up as it has been showing signs of wear and tear for some time.

“The Bucket Fountain is a much-loved feature of Cuba Street and we’re keen to keep it in tip-top condition. It’s been five years since its last makeover and it is in need of some attention. The buckets are chipped and faded and the frame is looking worn and scruffy.

“Our plan is to dismantle the fountain completely and remove the buckets and frame for refurbishment. The buckets will be completely re-fibreglassed and the frame will be repainted with a durable scratch-resistant paint. We will also be fibre-glassing the pool at the base of the fountain, meaning the whole site will be fenced off while the repairs take place. The fountain will be back in all its glory by the end of October.”

The Bucket Fountain was first installed in 1969 and since then has become an enduring symbol of Cuba Street’s quirky, creative vibe. A favourite with locals and visitors alike, the fountain’s unique design was the work of local architect Graham Allardice.

Water pours from the ball at the top of the fountain into the highest bucket which, when full, tips its contents into the bucket below – and so on until the bottom bucket empties into the pool below. This simple yet amusing concept has entertained the young and the young-at-heart for decades.

The work will be undertaken by Metalworx Engineering Ltd and Wellington Pool Services.

ENDS

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