One of New Zealand’s most recognisable buildings is set to get a major refurbishment after being closed for nearly eight years.
Rotorua Museum was forced to close in November 2016 after a rapid seismic risk assessment determined it was earthquake-prone.
Today, Rotorua Lakes Council announced that the final piece of project funding had been confirmed, meaning construction for its re-opening can go ahead.
Construction is set to begin in June of this year.
It comes after the Government added an additional $5 million from the Provincial Growth Fund through Kānoa to the project — on top of an additional $17 million awarded in 2019.
“We listened to our community and have taken action to raise the significant amount of funding needed to make this happen without increasing ratepayers’ contribution to this project of $15.5m,” Rotorua Mayor Tania Tapsell said.
“We’re incredibly grateful to have received this final $5m from Kānoa – RD, which means construction can now get underway.
“This is a real success for our community as the project will benefit our economy, creating jobs and investment into the restoration of our iconic building and reputation as a world-class tourism destination.”
Tapsell called it a “hugely significant” project and said: “We’re doing everything possible to ensure it’s delivered within budget.”
“We understand the significant role the museum plays in the city’s identity and are pleased that the full build can now be completed with additional support from the Government,” the head of Kānoa – RD Robert Pigou said.