“Melanesian Mission closed for strengthening and revitalisation” Heritage New Zealand Media Release

Melanesian Mission closed for strengthening and revitalisation

One of Auckland’s iconic historic buildings is about to undergo the makeover of its long, illustrious life.

The Melanesian Mission building – a Category 1 historic place cared for by Heritage New Zealand – will be seismically strengthened, ensuring the distinctive 157-year-old stone building will continue to grace one of Auckland’s beautiful water front sites for future generations to enjoy.

The strengthened historic building, together with an exciting new café facility, will open in October 2017.

The Media Release is as follows:

 

 

 

December 8

MEDIA RELEASE

Melanesian Mission closed for strengthening and revitalisation

One of Auckland’s iconic historic buildings is about to undergo the makeover of its long, illustrious life.

The Melanesian Mission building – a Category 1 historic place cared for by Heritage New Zealand – will be seismically strengthened, ensuring the distinctive 157-year-old stone building will continue to grace one of Auckland’s beautiful water front sites for future generations to enjoy.

In addition, the site will be revitalised to include a café for the many visitors that use this special heritage place – along with interpretation signage that will tell some of the many stories associated with the building and grounds dating back to the earliest days of colonial Auckland.

The Melanesian Mission building and café closed this month in preparation for work to start early 2017.

Good weather during the upcoming summer period will provide the perfect opportunity to revitalise the café and strengthen the historic building, which is built from basalt that was quarried from Rangitoto Island in 1859.

The site’s significance to New Zealand’s heritage has been recognised through grant funding from Foundation North, the Stout Trust and Vector, along with donations from Heritage New Zealand supporters which are being used for the strengthening works.

The strengthened historic building, together with an exciting new café facility, will open in October 2017.

Over the years the building has adapted to the times and become an Auckland heritage icon. During its history the building has been used as an early church mission, a flying school, a museum and a restaurant.

“There’s been strong public support for this project, and the result will be an outstanding place people can enjoy in the heart of Auckland’s favourite summer playground,” says the General Manager Heritage Destinations, Nick Chin.

“When we re-open again in October 2017 people will be able to appreciate the significance of this building, but also enjoy a wonderful new café and fine dining experience.”

Media Contact: Nick Chin, Ph 027-206-5905

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