Hastings Library Hall of Memories Strengthening work begins

Heritage preservation work is starting at the Hall of Memories at Hastings Library this week, with replica moulds being made of two exterior heritage features, part of ongoing conservation activities to protect the war memorial. 

This work comes ahead of further earthquake strengthening in the Hall of Memories due to start mid-February. Exact dates for that work are dependent on gaining Building Consent.  

The war memorial section at the front of the library was dedicated in the 1950s to honour those who served and died in World War 2. 

A nationally significant heritage space, regular preservation work has been undertaken over the years to ensure its longevity and accessibility now and into the future. This work continues that maintenance and preservation programme, planned and consulted on with the community in the 2024-2034 Long-Term Plan. 

At the same time the library’s fire systems will be replaced as part of the Building Consent requirements, and the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system will be replaced as the current one no longer functions efficiently. 

Hastings mayor Wendy Schollum said the project focused on protecting people, the building and the irreplaceable elements of the memorial hall, including the mural painted in 1959 by nationally renowned war artist Peter McIntyre, two etched glass windows, and a large engraved marble rock. 

“As stewards of this irreplaceable memorial and as providers of a safe, accessible library service for our community this work is needed. 

“It’s been planned and budgeted for as part of our overall programme of asset maintenance that ensures Council-run facilities are safe, sustainable and fit-for-purpose. 

“It’s important we get on with this work now, as delaying it puts people and the heritage elements at risk.” 

The cost of the project is $1.5 million, and includes: partially removing the floor inside the Hall of Memories to enable the strengthening of the foundations; strengthening the three-storey wall between the hall and the main library, including filling the wall and applying high-performance concrete on the library side of it; and replacing the end-of-life HVAC and fire systems. 

Strengthening of the remainder of the library building will be considered at a future date, once upcoming legislative reviews of the Building Act 1997 are completed and funding decisions made.  

The current work is expected to take about nine months to complete, with access to the library during that time via the east entrance from the library car park. 

Noise and vibration will be noticeable, particularly during the first 12 weeks while the concrete floor is carefully removed to avoid damaging the mural. 

There may be a short-term full library closure with dates to be confirmed. 

Hastings District Council acknowledges the disruption this work will cause and thanks the community for its patience. These upgrades are a necessary investment to ensure the safety, longevity, and respectful preservation of one of Hastings’ most important civic and memorial buildings. 

Heritage Hall of Memories features: 

The mural: Painted directly on the wall in 1959 by Peter McIntyre, one of New Zealand’s most renowned war artists.  

Two etched glass windows: Also designed by McIntyre, these will be removed and the designs copied onto new UV protecting glass. The original windows will be preserved. 

Large marble rock:  Engraved with "Our freedom is bought with a price that others paid. As you pass through here, remember."  This will be protected during the work. 

Replica moulds are being made of two plaster artworks affixed to the exterior wall of the hall. This is being done to ensure there are copies in case these artworks are damaged at any point. 

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