Volunteer support strong for Soldier’s Block

One year on from the Anzac Day reopening of the historic Soldiers Block in Hanmer Springs, it’s community involvement and a strong vision, which has made the site a must-see on every tour itinerary.

Part of that success is thanks to the volunteering efforts of people like Alison Nimmo and Suzanne Robinson. Each Sunday, they’ve been opening the doors to the reinvigorated Soldiers Block, showcasing the amazing restoration work and exciting plans for the future.

One of the other people giving their time to the project is Mark Inglis, a Hanmer Springs resident for the past 24 years. With a list of accolades as long as your arm - including the New Zealand Order of Merit - Mark had a real interest in seeing life being breathed back into the site.

“One of the most common things people say is that, for years we've just been looking through the windows. They're just so thankful that they can now come and wander through and get a sense of the place.”

“Alison and Suzanne are one of the reasons that people can get in and have a look. They've been absolute troopers. Just amazing.

To many, including Mark, Hamner Springs is much more than just the physical environment. “It doesn't take long when you live in Hamner, to understand both the Queen Mary site and the Hot Pools are the real beating heart and soul of the village. There's just that sense of healing. The added advantage for someone like me, is that you have all of the adventure as well.

The feedback on the Soldiers Block opening has been massive too, according to Mark.

“We get people who have had relations through, be it the First or Second World War, or through the drug and alcohol treatment programme.”

“They might walk in to have a look at a renovated building, but they walk out with a real sense of the history and sense of the importance of it.

The Soldiers Block in Hanmer Springs is open from 10am to midday each Sunday. Entry is free, but donations are appreciated.