Newspaper Letter 1976 – Cottage industry needs recognition

Cottage industry needs recognition

Mr Editor: It is with interest that I read of the Havelock North Borough Council’s deliberations concerning potter kilns and cottage industries. It would appear necessary for serious consideration to be given to the inclusion of cottage industries in town planning.  The problem is not only a local one. An overall recognition of the problems facing craftsmen, and town planning legislation to include cottage industries, is needed throughout New Zealand.

There is an increasing number of potters wishing to build and operate oil or gas-fired kilns and, provided simple but adequate safeguards are taken, there is little risk Involved. On minimum-sized residential sites noise and smoke should constitute little nuisance when the kiln operated efficiently.

Pottery from New Zealand is now internationally recognised. It is of interest that the New Zealand Society of Potters was formed 20 years ago by potters operating “backyard” kilns. The society receives invitations from overseas to send exhibitions of members’ work and these are highly regarded. Pottery, weaving and other products of cottage crafts have been presented by the Government to the Queen and to visiting dignitaries from other countries.

Cottage craft has a totally opposing aspect to commercialism and industry and it is time that the needs of the artist-craftsman were recognised. It is to be hoped that the town planning authorities will take an enlightened view of their needs before drawing up new legislation.

B.J. Martin
President N.Z. Society of Potters

Hastings

The Mayor of Havelock North, Mr Jeff Whittaker said the latest kiln application was declined because it “appeared” a full-time pottery business would be set up as a commercial proposition in a residential area.

He added that the council has include in its review of the town plan a provision for cottage industries to be established in residential areas. Some control is required over the installation and siting of oil-fired or gas-fired kilns, but the council was “sympathetic” toward the needs of crafts people. Ed.