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In the heart of Wellington, a group of passionate individuals fought tooth and nail to save The Begonia House from being torn down. The woman leading this charge, Mazz Scannell, couldn’t contain her excitement after the Wellington City Councillors made the decision to preserve this iconic 1960s greenhouse. Along with The Begonia House, the council also voted to save two other cherished community assets – the Karori events centre and Khandallah Pool.
The Wellington Botanic Gardens president, Mazz Scannell, expressed her delight at the outcome, stating, “It’s a great result not just for Wellingtonians, but for anyone who loves Wellington. Props to the council for backing this initiative.” The battle to save The Begonia House was truly a community effort, with people from all walks of life coming together to ensure its preservation. Scannell highlighted the immense support they received, from individuals collecting signatures to companies donating funds for hoardings.
The campaign to save The Begonia House garnered a total of 8730 valid signatures, showcasing the widespread support for this cause. While the council has agreed to save the greenhouse, the allocated budget for upgrades is minimal. Scannell emphasized the need for local construction companies to pitch in and help create a better space within budget constraints. In addition to the physical upgrades, The Friends of the Wellington Botanic Garden are now focusing on fundraising to enhance the interior of the tropical greenhouse, making it a truly remarkable space for visitors.