Panmure roller-door project strapped for cash

The Panmure Business Association is eager to continue its roller door initiative in the Panmure town centre but says it is lacking the funds to do so.

The project, which began in 2020, is an attempt to liven up the area with art and colour but has been put on hold for the last couple of years due to Covid-19 and funds being moved to Auckland Council's emergency budget.

Panmure town manager Chris Sutton says the 35 roller doors should have been done within six months, but Covid has affected the project dramatically.

"The local board's budget is obviously a lot tighter now. The council are struggling but they still want things to happen," said Sutton.

She is hopeful the association's recent application for funding from the Maungakiekie-Tāmaki local board will be successful.

Designs have been added to 15 roller doors along Queens Road, and the board is keen to continue the art project to improve the area's appeal.

“At night it looks very sad. It’s all about the perception of changing people's attitudes because people still think Panmure is a very unsafe place," said Sutton.

While each design is unique, they all reflect themes of cultural diversity, as well as the history and environment of Panmure.

Panmure resident Angela Ludemann says she believes the initiative has been a great way to celebrate diversity and help empower the local iwi, Ngāti Paoa.

“The project has definitely brought life to the town and made it more inviting. The artwork and designs help to create a space where people come to enjoy and respect the culture and environment of Panmure”.

Ludemann hopes other town centres will get behind similar initiatives and help represent the diverse cultures that make up Auckland.

LISTEN: Panmure town manager Chris Sutton talks about the project:-