The Blackball Community Centre, located on the West Coast of the South Island of New Zealand, has a rich and significant history. This two-storeyed timber building at 45 Hilton Street which was originally constructed in 1910 as the house for the manager of the Blackball Coal Mine. in Blackball now serves as a vibrant community hub. This makes the building itself a Category 2 Historic Place, contributing to the understanding of Blackball’s rich history of mining, industrial unrest, and unionism in New Zealand. The mine manager’s residence housed the manager’s family and even included quarters for servants in the attic. In contrast to the modest homes of the miners, this grand building reflected the social hierarchy of the mining era.

After the decline of coal mining in Blackball, the Mine Manager’s House found a new purpose. In 1968, it was converted into the Blackball Community Centre, a vital hub for community gatherings and events.

After the mine’s operation, the building transitioned. By the early 1950s, it became a miners’ hostel, with a dormitory-style hall and laundry facilities added. In 1958, it was vested as Crown Land and then transferred to the Blackball District Community Centre. Over the years, it fell into disrepair but was notably repaired and restored through thousands of hours of voluntary labour in the early 1980s. It has since housed various community activities, including a local radio station, art classes, concerts, and even a boxing gym.

In essence, the decoration of the Blackball Community Centre appears to be a blend of its grand historic architecture, a vibrant and individualistic artistic approach, and a strong connection to Blackball’s unique and proud working-class heritage. It’s not just decorative but tells a story about the town and its people.

Community Hub: As a small, relatively isolated town, a community centre is crucial for providing a space for residents to connect, engage in activities, and access support. Its stated purpose is “to provide ongoing support to all members of our community in the way of advice, instructions in day-to-day living and a facility for recreation and art endeavours.”

Services and Activities: The Blackball District Community Centre Incorporated aims to support the community in various ways. While specific regular activities might vary, community centres typically offer:
Meeting spaces for local groups and clubs.
Events and social gatherings.
A venue for arts and recreational pursuits.
Contact Information:
Address: 45 Hilton Street, Blackball, Greymouth 7804
Phone: 027 378 9520
Email: [email protected]
Website: http://blackballcommunitycentre.co.nz (though it’s worth noting that smaller community websites can sometimes be less frequently updated, so email or phone might be best for current information).

The Blackball Community Centre is a testament to the resilience and strong community spirit of Blackball, continuing to serve as a focal point for its residents

• Community Contributions: As a community centre, much of the “decoration” likely comes from the contributions of local residents – art, crafts, donated furniture, and items that reflect the town’s character and the collective efforts of its people.
• Ongoing Evolution: Community centres are living spaces, and their decoration can evolve over time as new projects, events, and community interests emerge. Renovations, like those that benefit from funds like the Provincial Growth Fund (which has supported other halls in the Grey District), might also update elements of the interior, while striving to retain the building’s historic character.

The Blackball Mine Manager’s House, now the Blackball Community Centre, stands as a testament to Blackball’s transformation. It reflects the town’s shift from a resource-dependent community to a place focused on togetherness and shared experiences.

The Blackball Community Centre, housed in the former Mine Manager’s residence, is open to visitors. Here you can experience a piece of Blackball’s history and perhaps even catch a local event or gathering.

The Blackball Community Centre offers both camping and laundry facilities for visitors. Has a hall available for hire. It’s a key venue for local events and gatherings in the Blackball area.. Houses the Blackball FM Radio Station.

The Community Centre aims to provide basic facilities at a low cost, making it a convenient stop for travelers exploring the West Coast, especially those dong the Paparoa Track.

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NO DOOR SALES: Don’t miss out as this will be a popular event.

Tickets can be bought by payments to Blackball Community Centre bank acct. KiwiBank 38-9004-0481519-05. Please put your name and phone No: as details in payment or email us at [email protected]. We will deliver or have them at door for you.