Modern Vision For Masterton Library
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 communitys use of the library.
The ball is rolling on one of Masterton District Council's key Long-Term Plan projects: a fit-for purpose 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
Scoop
12 hours ago
- Scoop
Affordable Homes To Address Te Kūiti Housing Shortage
Associate Minister of Housing Mā te hononga ka whai kaha. Te Kūiti whānau will enjoy greater access to modern affordable rental housing thanks to an Iwi-led partnership backed by the Government, Associate Housing Minister Tama Potaka says. The Government has approved in principle $17million into a partnership with Ngāti Maniapoto that will build 40 affordable rental homes with infrastructure in Te Kūiti, giving effect to the Crown's Treaty of Waitangi settlement commitment with the iwi. The Iwi will also contribute a significant portion to the development including $11million - representing 50 percent of the housing supply costs - and the land. 'This is an area of high housing need. With over a third of Te Kūiti residents renting, the limited availability of rental properties makes it difficult for whānau to secure stable housing,' Mr Potaka says. 'We're taking action to help address this shortage, which will also help local businesses because employers can struggle to attract and retain staff due to the lack of affordable housing. This mahi can mean a world of difference for whānau in small rural communities that need stable employment and incomes. 'The development, named Te Kirikiri, will feature affordable rentals of a mixed typology to meet the diverse needs of kaumātua and young whānau, consisting of 20 two-bedroom accessible homes for kaumātua, 13 three-bedroom homes and7 four-bedroom homes. 'Work is scheduled to begin next month and will take about two years to complete. 'Te Kirikiri will incorporate tikanga Māori and kaupapa-led design principles, and include the use of wetlands, native grasses, trees, and shrubs to create safe, communal spaces for whānau to enjoy. 'These affordable rentals will support Ngāti Maniapoto's ambition to place 200 whānau in safe, secure, high-quality and affordable homes by 2030.' The Government investment is part of a $200 million commitment announced earlier this year that will accelerate Māori housing projects across the country and enable the delivery of 400 affordable rentals in high-need areas by the end of June 2027.
NZ Herald
13 hours ago
- NZ Herald
IDDS Tairāwhiti 2025 to tackle climate, food and energy challenges
Thirty-six people from around the world, including New Zealand, will gather for the International Development Design Summit (IDDS) in Tairāwhiti next month. Resilient indigenous communities and keeping Māori heritage alive for future generations with a focus on the environment and entrepreneurship are key parts of the summit.
Newsroom
a day ago
- Newsroom
Want better career prospects? Learn three languages, says Zespri
Zespri's China corporate affairs manager says learning te reo Māori and a third language alongside a student's native tongue should be mandated in New Zealand's curriculum. Ivan Kinsella, the only New Zealander based in the kiwifruit marketer's Shanghai office, says proficiency in Chinese has propelled his career and that uptake of the language, along with others, makes young people more competent going out into the world.
