Richmond Park Showgrounds’ Members Grandstand is coming down after an Earthquake Report in May deemed it too dangerous for public use.
Four decades behind its larger neighbour, the Waimea Grandstand, it was constructed in 1958 after the Nelson Trotting and Jockey Clubs roped in support from the Nelson A&P Association for a second spectator platform.
The annual harness racing and A&P Show, including the now defunct grand parade where the show’s prize-winning animals strutted their stuff, fixated hundreds from the grandstand, and several community groups had occupied its lower sections during its history.
Norwest Demolition began deconstruction following Kaumātua Lees Seymour’s karakia at the Members Grandstand on 26 August with Nelson A&P Association and Nelson Harness Racing Club representatives in attendance.
Richmond Park Showgrounds historian Kirstan Robinson says the grandstand’s dismount was a sad call by the association, but its design and prohibitive costs weren’t conducive for re-strengthening works.
“[Committee members] were shocked; they did not expect such a bad report,” she says.
“They went over it many times looking for a gleam of hope that the building could be saved.
“This [demolition] decision was not taken lightly, and although it’s been a disappointing decision to make, the committee believes this is the best course of action for the Richmond Park Showgrounds’ future.
“We want to ensure as well that the other grandstand is safe. It has had earthquake strengthening work in the past, and there’s a lot more effort being put into it so it can be viable.”
Kirstan says once deconstruction is done and dusted in one to two months, the vacant lot’s next move will be decided.
“We’re just going to take it one day at a time and see what the next steps are,” she says.
