As construction has progressed on the Howick Library and Fencible Lounge, some unforeseen risks have emerged, and additional funding is being sought to manage these and ensure the project can be completed as planned. It is quite common for deterioration and damage that was not previously visible to be discovered once a building structure is lifted to allow the required works to be carried out.
Temporary Pop-Up Service
Temporary services have been in place to keep the community connected since the library closed in February. A temporary library pop-up remains open at the Howick War Memorial Hall, 91 Picton Street Howick
Pop-Up Service Hours:
Monday to Friday: 9.30am – 5.30pm
Sunday: 10.00am – 4.00pm
Saturday: No service (to accommodate Howick Village Market)
Services available at the pop-up:
- Customer holds pick-up
- Book returns
- Book a Librarian
- Customer service
- Skinny Jump modem sign-ups
- No on-site collection to borrow apart from requested items
For full library services, residents can visit Highland Park, Pakūranga, Botany, or Flat Bush Library at Ormiston Town Centre (near the food court).
Local Board chair Bruce Kendall says: “Howick Library and the Fencible Lounge are well-loved community spaces. Ten months without service is a long time, so the pop-up service is the best way to stay connected. It’s a short walk, drive, or journey, so residents - including seniors, families, and student, can still return items, pick up holds, and access support without having to go far while the work is underway.”
Temporary pause on other projects
Due to the cost of the library renewal, some other local board projects have been deferred, including new public toilets in Howick and planned improvements at the Lloyd Elsmore Park mountain bike trail, which will now be scheduled for the 2028/2029 financial year.
Kendall adds, “We’re excited to give Howick Library a big refresh so it can continue to be a safe, welcoming hub for everyone in the community for years to come. While this important work is underway, the new public toilets and mountain bike trail improvements will take a little longer than planned. We know these projects matter to our residents, and the board remains committed to them- we’ll return to them as soon as the library upgrade is complete.”
Looking Ahead
Howick Library and the Fencible Lounge are expected to reopen on 2 November 2026, following completion of the renewal works.
Howick Library is one of 56 libraries in Auckland Council’s network.
This renewal reflects the board’s focus on supporting community infrastructure and adapting services to meet local needs, particularly for residents who rely on Howick Library as a central hub for learning, connection, and community programs.
Howick War Memorial Hall.
FAQ
How will I know where to go for the pop-up service?
Signs will be placed at the library entrance and near reception to guide visitors to the temporary location.
Will the Justice of The Peace service still be available?
Yes. Justices of the Peace services previously available at Howick Library will temporarily operate from Uxbridge Arts and Culture Centre, 35 Uxbridge Road, Howick (next door to the Howick Library), while the library is closed for repairs. Service hours: Tuesday and Friday 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm, Thursday 4:30 pm – 5:30 pm and Saturday 10:00 am – 11.30 am.
How do we stay up to date?
We’ll share news and updates with the community through our Howick Local Board Facebook page.
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