$30,000 grant to Vanished World Fossil Centre

Otago MP David Parker has today presented a cheque on behalf of Tourism Minister Mark Burton to help fund the development of a fossil display at the Vanished World Fossil Centre in Waitaki.

The cheque for $30,000 comes from the Minister's Tourism Facilities Grants Programme, and will help extend the tourism opportunities around Waitaki.

" Whitestone Waitaki already attracts over 40,000 visitors to the district each year. Many of these guests, who come both from New Zealand and around the world, are here to see the Oamaru Blue Penguin colony,” said David Parker.

“The Vanished World Fossil Centre will certainly be one of New Zealand’s most unique attractions, complementing the quality eco-tourism ventures already in place and offering visitors a different kind of insight into our remarkable natural heritage.

"In addition, the Centre will generate jobs, stimulate the local economy, and enhance New Zealand’s overall national tourism product.

"This government welcomes the opportunity to work in partnership with our regions to develop sustainable tourism ventures.

"The financial support provided by the Minister of Tourism for developing the Vanished World Centre illustrates our determination to support worthy projects which come from and continue to have the strong backing of local communities," David Parker said.

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