Wakatipu scout den years in the making

Scout leaders and the mayor (from left) Eden Brackstone, Simon Brackstone, Mayor Clive Geddes, Kevin McRae, Heck Browett, Paul Baylis, Phil Thompson and James Campbell at the new Queenstown scout den. Photo by Joanne Carroll.

The Wakatipu Scout Group's new $125,000 den at Frankton Marina has been planned for 15 years.

Wakatipu Scout Group leader Simon Brackstone said the group had raised $30,000 and secured grants from the Central Lakes Trust and the Community Trust of Southland.

The Queenstown Scout Group dates back to 1940.

"Scouts were in decline a few years ago, but I believe scouts are as relevant today as they had ever been," Mr Brackstone said.

He said the scout group had grown from one leader and 12 scouts to seven leaders and 40 scouts and cubs in six years.

The new den would also be used by the Wakatipu Girl Guides and Brownies, bringing the total number of youth using the facility to about 80, he said.

Scout leaders from Alexandra and Arrowtown attended the official opening on Saturday.

Mr Geddes said he was a scout himself in Greymouth about 50 years ago.

"I've been associated through my life with the movement.

"It's a very active and well-supported group."