A spectacular sunrise greeted those at a cultural ceremony at A and P Park at dawn on Monday morning.

Representatives of Rangitāne o Wairau, Ngāti Rarua, Ngāti Rarua, Ngāti Toa Rangitira, the A and P Park Association, Marlborough Football, Foodbank, JTB Architects, Evan Jones Construction, Marlborough District Councillors, Council staff and contractors gathered for the laying of a mauri stone, gifted by Mana Whenua.

The mauri stone, a sacred Māori object that represents the life force or essence of a place, is blessed and buried to ensure the vitality and successful completion of a building project.

After the stone was laid, attendees were invited to place soil over the stone to connect the land and protect the site.

Mayor Nadine Taylor acknowledged the work to get the project to this stage and said it was great to see Marlborough investing in the redevelopment of public spaces.

Work has already begun at the pavilion site with construction expected to be completed in time for next year’s November A and P Show.

The project is to cost $5.9M which includes pavilion construction, carpark and toilets.

The new pavilion will be the home to Marlborough Football and the Marlborough A and P Association.

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