News Release
Friday 2 Decemmber 2011

Grandstand to be renamed after former mayor

ROTORUA 02.12.11:

Former Rotorua mayor John Keaney’s name is set to make a permanent mark at one of the city’s top sports venues.

Rotorua International Stadium’s grandstand will be re-named ‘The John Keaney Grandstand’ at an official function at the venue at 3pm today [Friday 2 December].

Mr Keaney passed away in 2009 but his legacy will be honoured through signage at the rear entrance of the grandstand, at the players’ tunnel, and on a plaque in the stadium’s corporate lounge.

Rotorua mayor Kevin Winters is hosting the ceremony on behalf of Rotorua District Council, and members of the Keaney family will also be in attendance.

Mr Winters said the council chose to pay tribute to the local politician and sportsman as a mark of respect for the good work he had done for the district.

“John was a real stalwart of rugby for the Bay of Plenty. Re-naming the grandstand in his honour is an acknowledgement of his efforts for his time on Rotorua’s county and district councils, and Bay of Plenty Regional Council.”

Events & Venues general manager Peter McLeod said he was pleased that the tribute could be made possible at Rotorua International Stadium.

“It’s a nice touch to be able to use the facilities we have to recognise outstanding community service,” he said.
[ENDS]

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