The physical build of the main street Winter’s building is likely to be finished by the end of next month.

Interior fit-out, landscaping and transition of services will then take place, with the final handover and opening scheduled for around March next year.

The building retrofit includes the Wairoa visitor centre/ i-site reception area and office, a hot desk room and a training/conference room.

The development has included strengthening the existing building, which is adjacent to the Gemmell’s on Parade site and will complement the community courtyard. A door linking the two areas will eventually be installed.

The exterior area created from the demolished buildings will be landscaped creating a plaza setting with streetside furniture.

Wairoa Mayor Craig Little said it is great to have the long-awaited development nearing completion. The project is on budget, and funding has been mostly sourced from the Kānoa Regional Economic Development and Investment Unit, minimising the impact on ratepayers.

“Putting the visitor centre and bus stop into the centre of town will mean tourists and visitors will be able to enjoy the main street, shop at our local businesses and allow us to grow our central business area. I know it has taken a while, but the completion of the Winter’s site will transform this area of town and help revitalise our main street. This work will also complement the river reserve landscaping we are also doing around the lighthouse. We are thrilled to be injecting some energy into our town centre.”

The Council is still confirming the final configuration and use of the building and exterior. It has already committed to selling the Paul Street i-Site visitor centre building once the move to the main street has taken place.

9 December 2024

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