Nathan Homestead in Manurewa will soon undergo a restoration as part of Auckland Council’s renewals programme. This work will help ensure this historically significant asset is available for all Aucklanders for many years to come. The scope of the work means the building will temporarily close from 30 June for approximately 12 months.
The renewals programme incorporates seismic strengthening in accordance with legislative requirements.
Manurewa Local Board chair Matt Winiata says he’s pleased the homestead will undergo a renewal with a high level of future-proofing.
“Nathan Homestead is much loved by the local community. It’s important we take action now to carry out enhancements so this taonga can be used and enjoyed by locals and visitors for years to come.
“The board is excited that the much-needed work will bring it up to current building safety standards, especially now as the homestead celebrates its centenary in 2025.
“I’m especially pleased that a lift will be installed in the building, which will allow people with mobility issues greater access to the homestead and the chance to enjoy all it offers, marking a wonderful 100-year birthday gift to the building and for the community.”
There will be a centenary celebration for the whole community when the homestead reopens in 2025.
Homestead ‘vital’ to local community
Many community groups use the homestead and almost all will be able to continue to use the site. While the homestead itself is temporarily closed the theatre and outbuildings will be used to accommodate events, programming and community groups. Auckland Council is working with all affected groups to finalise locations and timetables.
“We value the diverse range of community groups that use Nathan Homestead,” says Darryl Soljan, Acting General Manager Connected Communities.
“The homestead is a place where the Manurewa community can come together for meaningful activities and vibrant celebrations.
“The Cultural Celebration Day held at the homestead earlier this month proved a great success. Young and old alike celebrated the diverse cultures of Tāmaki Makaurau through a range of fun activities ranging from dance to Niuean weaving, to Japanese calligraphy.”
“This event attests to how vital the homestead is. We are pleased that many of the community groups will be able to stay on and use the homestead’s theatre and outbuildings and that Nathan Homestead’s vibrant programming offer will continue.”
Hula Fit performance at the Cultural Celebration Day. Photo: Auckland Council
Drop-in Japanese Calligraphy with Rie Shibasaki (Japanese Calligraphy Auckland). Photo: Auckland Council
Drop-in Mini Putiputi with Ahi Raranga. Photo: Auckland Council.
The building
Nathan Homestead is a two-story heritage unreinforced structure originally erected in 1924. It features five prominent brick chimneys, a perimeter of unreinforced masonry (URM) walls, along with a timber mid-floor and timber truss roof structure.
The homestead underwent a detailed seismic assessment in 2017, with subsequent revision in 2020 and has been categorised as earthquake-prone.
Taryn Crewe, General Manager Parks and Community Facilities, says it’s crucial Nathan Homestead undergoes restoration so the building can be used well into the future.
“Nathan Homestead is one of many key buildings in Auckland of cultural and historic importance that will be undergoing restoration, including strengthening to futureproof against the impact of potential earthquakes in our region,” she says.
The renewal programme enables essential repair, maintenance, and enhancement work to be carried out. This includes fire safety enhancements, emergency lighting upgrades, accessibility enhancements, seismic strengthening, and in this case including the installation of an interior lift, and paintwork.
Throughout the construction period, the building will be closed to the public. The construction is scheduled to commence in July 2024, with an estimated duration of 12 months.
