Reefton Visitor and Service Centre name to remain

Following localised engagement with Inangahua Ward residents in August, the Reefton Visitor and Service Centre (RVSC) will be retaining its current name.

At the Inangahua Community Board (ICB) meeting on 9 September 2025, board members unanimously voted to keep the facility’s current name. The RVSC’s name was first appointed by the ICB when the amalgamated services (Reefton Visitor Centre and Reefton Service Centre) opened in November 2022, and it was decided then to revisit alternative naming options in the future.

There were 16 submissions received about the potential name change, eight were for retaining and eight supported a change. Iwi were also given an opportunity to contribute.

Group Manager Community Services Krissy Trigg says: “Settling the facility’s name allows for progression of the rebranding project which was presented to the ICB in July 2025. This project involves updating the visual identity of the RVSC, as since its opening, the facility has lacked clear and relevant signage for the services we provide and a connection to Buller District Council.

“The RVSC serves a multitude of functions for the benefit of residents and ratepayers in the area, while also providing an important tourism link for visitors. The current signage we have is either outdated or non-existent, causing confusion for all facility users.

The new brand identity has been developed in-house by council’s Communication and Engagement team with input and collaboration from ICB and members of Reefton Inc., to ensure the visual approach aligns with the Reefton Heritage Town Design guidelines – ‘to be sympathetic with and enhance the existing character and values of the Reefton town centre’.

The budget for rebranding the RVSC is $10,000 and is identified within the council’s 2025-2034 Long-Term Plan. The recent renaming engagement with Inangahua ward residents had no associated costs and it was important to Council that the community had strong involvement.

“This is a positive and exciting project for our RVSC team and Inangahua Ward residents and we look forward to rolling out the updated signage later this year” Ms Trigg concludes.

-ENDS-

For further information please contact:
Community Engagement Team
Buller District Council
Media.Enquiries@bdc.govt.nz

Disclaimer
The information in this media release was correct at time of publication. Changes in circumstances after the time of publication may impact on the accuracy of the information.