Remuera Library will soon undergo a restoration as part of Auckland Council’s renewals programme. The work means this historically significant asset will be available for Aucklanders to use and enjoy for many years to come. The scope of the work means the building will close temporarily from 1 July 2024 for approximately 12 months.
The library’s services will be relocated to Somervell Presbyterian Church, 497 Remuera Road, with the library expected to resume operating from the church around mid-July 2024.
Library users are welcome to visit the Parnell, St Heliers or Epsom libraries (or any other Auckland Council library) until the temporary library is open.
The renewals programme incorporates seismic strengthening to meet legal requirements.
Ōrākei Local Board chair Scott Milne says he’s pleased that this vital community asset will undergo a renewal.
“Remuera is home to much of Auckland’s finest heritage and Remuera Library is an iconic and much-loved building in the heart of the community. The library services are well-used by locals.
“The work being undertaken is timely. Remedial and strengthening work will be carried out on the library’s roof and the interior will be enhanced through repainting. Other fixtures and fittings will be upgraded accordingly.
“We are acting now to improve this historic asset so it can continue to be enjoyed by Aucklanders for years to come.”
The building
Remuera Library, which opened in 1926, is a Category 1 heritage listed building on the Heritage New Zealand Register and is listed on the Auckland Council Schedule of Historic Heritage as a category A building.
The library was identified as earthquake-prone, with a seismic score of 15% of the New Building Standard (15% NBS). This score indicates that the library’s earthquake safety risk is relatively very high compared to a new building.
Taryn Crewe, General Manager Parks and Community Facilities, says it’s important restoration work is carried out on Remuera Library so the building can be used well into the future.
“Remuera Library is one of many key buildings in Auckland of cultural and historic importance that will undergo restoration, including strengthening to future-proof against the impact of potential earthquakes in our region,” she says.
The renewal programme enables essential repairs, maintenance, and enhancement works to take place. This includes fire safety enhancements, emergency lighting upgrades, accessibility enhancements, seismic strengthening and an interior cosmetic refresh to the library including paintwork and recarpeting.
