After Pilot City Trust Founder, Pat Magill’s passing in 2023, and in line with his wishes the Maraenui Street survey was established to coincide with Pat’s birthday, aiming to capture community experiences. The first survey, held on September 29, 2024, outside The Pie Man, was well attended and fostered sharing of stories about Pat’s community work.

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A key outcome was the community’s wish to renovate the park stage, which has become central to events like Christmas in the Park and Matariki. The Council supported this, and improvements such as a cover and ramp are underway, thanks to Neill Gordon and others.

The Magill family offered $2,000 for further stage beautification, suggesting ideas like handprints, painted stones, or a mural. Pat had previously organized children to paint beach stones, which are still available for use. Inspiration also came from Whanganui Queen’s Garden, where children’s handprints form a mural. Other creative ideas, such as pou carvings, are welcomed, with the emphasis that the project should be community driven.

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Roger The Pie Man shared that Pat’s memory continues to inspire conversations and community spirit. The Magill family invites everyone to gather outside the shop on an advertised date near Pat’s birthday (September 29th) for coffee, food, and kōrero, celebrating Pat’s legacy and the community’s ongoing development.