The idea has been proposed by Woodend Beach Country Music Club president Kevin Taylor, who hopes to join forces with the Rangiora and Kaiapoi country music clubs to plan an annual festival.
‘‘For decades it was popular with campers and the local community, but it has not been well used for a long time, especially since the earthquakes and, as a structure,
it is nearing the end of its life,’’ Mr Gordon says.
Council staff are considering options for its future and, while it is likely to be demolished, rebuilding it has not been ruled out.
‘‘It’s about establishing what is the best use for the sound shell and whether there are more suitable venues in the district for a festival.’’
Mr Gordon, a country music fan, says he is keen to support the creation of a country music festival in the district.
‘‘While the Woodend Beach Camp Ground sound shell may or may not feature in such a festival, I have asked staff to work with the clubs to explore what venues might be suitable and to help them with the festival concept.’’
The Woodend Beach Country Music Club already organises an annual festival, but Mr Taylor believes it could be much bigger if the three clubs join forces.
He says festivals in Motueka, Westport and Cromwell are major drawcards for people from around New Zealand.
‘‘They can get anything up to 600 campervans at the Westport festival, so it could be a real boost for Waimakariri and Dan is keen on it.’’
Mr Taylor’s vision is for a three-day festival shared around the district.
If the sound shell is not available, the Rangiora Showgrounds is one option, with evening events at the Kaiapoi Club and Rangiora RSA. Kaiapoi’s Trousselot Park rotunda is an option for ‘‘walk-ups’’ on Sunday.
‘‘We’re looking to form a committee with three representatives from each club and it will be up to the committee to decide on the timing, venues and format for the festival.’’
