A last-minute rush of donations has allowed Whanganui's Sarjeant Gallery to meet a deadline crucial to its survival.
Whanganui's Sarjeant Gallery Photo: Paul Gibson
The gallery was given a seven day reprieve after last week when it fell short of a $10 million target for triggering a matching contribution from the government towards a $34m redevelopment project.
Senior curator Greg Anderson said several large pledges had helped the gallery get over the line.
He said the Sarjeant was now awaiting Ministry of Culture and Heritage sign-off.
"We've met their requirements and it's up to them as to what their process is next and they will let us know whether we've been successful in due course I guess."
Mr Anderson said it was a wonderful step forward for the project, which included earthquake strengthening and the construction of a new wing.
The Whanganui council has pledged a further $5m and the gallery has set a 31 December deadline for finding the remaining money.