Landmark Building Shapes Up

Earthquake strengthening work required for old and new wings of the Hawke’s Bay Museum and Art Gallery has pushed out the proposed completion date for the redevelopment – but just by a month or two.

A partial redesign done to further strengthen the building caused some delay – a process triggered by the release of the interim design code by the Royal Commission of Inquiry into the Canterbury earthquake.

While there was no statutory requirement to adopt the interim code, the Napier City Council called for changes to the structural design to ensure the building complies. Modifications have included thicker precast wall panels and more reinforcing steel for floors.

The builders, Gemco Construction, continue to resource additional staff as needed, ensuring the overall completion date has not been dramatically affected.

When it re-opens around late March/early April next year, the extended and upgraded complex will provide a landmark new home for the Hawke’s Bay Museums Trust’s treasured collection and objects.

A recent project milestone was the installation of the first steel frame for the new roof to the main galleries in the new wing. An infill of timber frames will support the roofing. Ground floor and basement level aluminium window joinery and glazing have been installed.

Meanwhile, major renovation work is underway on a number of fronts on the complex’s existing wing.

The Louis Hay-designed façade damaged during building work in the 1970s is being restored with original intricate Art Deco wall patterns reformed.

The demolished Holt Gallery has new front and rear wall panels incorporating new windows, panelling and plaster.

In the Bestall Gallery, the internal red bricks and heavy concrete ceiling have been removed, the lift shaft is framed and lined and work continues on services.