The historic Warkworth Town Hall has been restored to its original glory and will reopen to the public on 25 February.
The 105-year-old building was built by Thomas Clark, whose family later became known for Crown Lynn pottery.
It is built from distinctive, hollow, glazed blocks, and is one of only two buildings constructed in this fashion still standing in New Zealand.
Local board thanks community
Rodney Local Board acknowledges the community’s commitment and fundraising efforts that have helped preserve the heritage-listed building.
Features of the restored building include a main hall with seating for 250 people, and an upper gallery with lift access that will seat another 50 people on restored seating from the original hall.
Other spaces include a meeting room, toilets and a kitchen. During the restoration, workers discovered some surprises, such as sink holes, a tree, a silted-up stream, a 1930s projector and historic tools.
Fundraising needed to complete restoration
The final stage of the restoration involves finishing the building’s interior.
This will require fundraising, which is being led by the Warkworth Town Hall Restoration Trust and fundraising team.
An open day will be held on 25 February to celebrate the hall’s official opening.
Visit the Rodney Local Board Facebook page for updates and information.
