Modern Vision For Masterton Library
The council has released concept architectural images of its $10.75 million planned library refurbishment and extension, with construction set to begin at the end of the year or early 2026.
A statement from the council said the concept images showcased 'a modern, light-filled space that blends functionality with inspiration' and that the upgrade would enhance the community's use of the library.
Public consultation on the project was done last year as part of the council's 2024-34 Long-Term Plan.
At the time, reports said the current building was no longer fit for purpose and that the current size and layout limited opportunities for the display of materials, places for study, and space for programmes and events.
The library building also had a range of maintenance issues that needed to be addressed urgently.
These included water damage, leaks in the building, mould in the basement, replacing the roof, heating and cooling system replacement, and improved accessibility at the front entrance to the library.
The architectural concept images showed purpose-built areas for community programmes, events, and creative collaboration, and an accessibly layout offering many spaces to learn and connect.
The enhanced library would feature a community classroom and lounge, meeting rooms, coffee kiosk, dedicated workroom, and a dynamic open-space office, transforming it from a traditional book repository into a community hub.
Contractor procurement was planned to start in September with the project expected to be completed mid-to-late 2027.
During the construction period, library services would continue at a temporary location to be confirmed by the council in coming weeks.
The council was also collaborating with local iwi to create a facility that celebrated Masterton's cultural identity, including integration of te reo Māori throughout signage and navigation.
Masterton Mayor Gary Caffell said the multimillion upgrade represented a major commitment to the district's cultural and educational future.
"The images we're releasing today represent more than just a building upgrade - they show our commitment to creating a vibrant hub with creativity, learning, and community connection at its heart," Caffell said.
"While we understand the temporary move may require some adjustment for our regular library users, we're confident the end result will exceed expectations.
"This isn't just a library renovation - it's an investment in a vital community space where knowledge is shared, and the community thrives together."
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
NZ Herald
a day ago
- NZ Herald
Māori wardens play vital role in natural disasters, push for more volunteers
Māori wardens have long served the Hawke's Bay community. More volunteers are now needed, including to play a vital role in future natural disasters. There is a push to have 500 Māori wardens volunteering by 2027 across the Te Piringa Manatōpū region, which spans from Hawke's Bay to Wellington. At
RNZ News
2 days ago
- RNZ News
Supreme Court finds riverbeds can be included in Māori customary marine title
law policy 25 minutes ago The Supreme Court has found riverbeds can be included in Māori customary marine title - if other legal tests are meet. Māori news reporter Pokere Paewai spoke to Tuwhenuaroa Natanahira. Tags: To embed this content on your own webpage, cut and paste the following: See terms of use.
Scoop
2 days ago
- Scoop
New Nature Mural Blooms In Celebration Of Upper Hutt's Diverse Cultural Roots
Following the recent completion of a new community mural, the southern end of Upper Hutt's Main Street is set to wow locals and visitors alike. The stunning artwork, installed on the side of the Lagans Pharmacy building, celebrates the city's growing cultural diversity and the impact of its natural environment on shaping a sense of belonging. Th e mural is a collaboration between Upper Hutt City Council and the Upper Hutt Multicultural Council, with local students from Maidstone Intermediate providing considerable input into the mural's design. 'Many of our ākonga (students) have families who set out from different parts of the world to make Upper Hutt their home. It's great to see them so actively engaged to contribute to their city, and to capture what they love about growing up in Upper Hutt,' says Wikus Swanepoel, principal at Maidstone Intermediate. Artist Aidan Walbækken (Te Ātiawa, Tainui), whose murals are featured across the wider Wellington region, combined the students' artistic vision with his signature style using rich, saturated colours and iconic nature imagery. While working on the mural during the last school holidays, many passersby stopped to comment on and delight in the giant kiwi, fantail, and other elements taking shape. 'It's a uniquely Upper Hutt mural. My aim was to put the spotlight on the native fauna and flora that so many locals love about living in the valley. It's a common thread that unites people, whether their families have been here for generations or whether they are new to the area,' explains Walbækken. The mural also includes Māori and Pasifika motifs, alongside examples of international flora, with each continent being represented by a flower. Integrating the mural into the surrounding architecture and landscape was a key consideration for Walbækken, who stresses the importance of honouring existing features in the placemaking process. 'Council has a lead role in maintaining welcoming and safe public spaces,' says Mike Ryan, Group Manager Community Services at Upper Hutt City Council. He adds that murals bring value to the cityscape well beyond their effectiveness in reducing graffiti. 'Murals like this one create a sense of local identity and belonging, which is crucial for social cohesion and community wellbeing. The final artwork is a credit to the artist, the students, and our partners at the Upper Hutt Multicultural Council, and the full support from building owner Peter Lagan has been fantastic,' he says. Successful collaboration, inspired by the shared goal to make the community feel welcome and included, has created an exciting art feature that will generate smiles and encourage intercultural exchange. 'The mural is a beautiful reminder that even though we may speak different languages, or may have started our journey somewhere overseas, Upper Hutt and its wonderful surrounding nature is our home,' says Pancha Narayan, president of the Upper Hutt Multicultural Council. Locals and visitors can see the mural at 10 Main Street in central Upper Hutt.
