Wellington’s $217.6 million Te Matapihi ki te Ao Nui Central Library will officially reopen its doors to the public from 10am on Saturday 14 March.
The return of the city’s much-loved central library will be celebrated with a civic ceremony to open the site, followed by a weekend of live music, exhibitions, performances, tours, storytelling, and demonstrations.
“The reopening of Te Matapihi ki te Ao Nui Central Library this month represents a turning point for Pōneke, and the wider region, spearheading the city-wide revitalisation efforts which will attract people to the area, and boost the local economy,” said Wellington City Council Mayor, Andrew Little.
“It comes at a great time, with the refreshed Te Ngākau Civic Square and the many surrounding projects nearing completion. These works have been disruptive to local businesses and retailers, but the revitalised civic spaces will attract many more Wellingtonians and visitors to the heart of our city. The future is brighter for Wellington.”
Council Chief Operating Officer, James Roberts says Te Matapihi ki te Ao Nui opening weekend will honour the iconic landmark.
“Te Matapihi ki te Ao Nui is more than a library, it’s a special place for everyone to learn, teach, relax, engage, discover, reflect, meet, greet, eat, create – and of course, read!” he said.
“Co-designed with mana whenua, the building, rawa (commissioned artwork), facilities and services showcase our diversity, shared history, and creativity, and celebrate the unique cultural identity of Pōneke.
“We are proud of the amazing collaboration, dedication and mahi needed to achieve this outstanding feat, and we’re so pleased we can finally open the doors and return this building back to its rightful owner – the people of Pōneke.”
Council’s Te Ngākau Construction Project Director, Paul Perniskie says the completion of Te Matapihi ki te Ao Nui on time and on budget has been a huge team effort.
“Special thanks to the design team of Athfield Architects and Tihei, Aurecon structural and building services, our main contractor LT McGuiness and the many subtrades, RCP project managers and RLB quantity surveyors, who have all delivered a high-quality outcome for Wellington. Their professionalism and dedication is highly appreciated,” he said.
