Bold new museum and theatre complex unveiled

Waipa District Councillors have ratified a bold new design concept for a proposed multi-million dollar museum and theatre complex in Te Awamutu.

The project, estimated at $14.2 million, will showcase local heritage and culture and provide space for performing and visual arts. The project is planned to begin in 2013.

It would be built on a Council-owned site opposite the existing Te Awamutu events centre, adjacent to Selwyn Park. Space currently occupied by the Museum in Bank St would be vacated and allow the existing Te Awamutu Library to expand.

The theatre will be a draw card for a full range of national musical events, theatre presentations and will double as a conference centre.

For the project to proceed, the community will be required to raise a minimum of one-third of the total cost. The benefits for the Te Awamutu community at large will be significant.

FAQ's

Can the existing Museum and Library be extended to provide suitable space for both?

The existing Museum building was not designed for extension. It would need to be rebuilt at significant cost to meet modern Museum and Library standards and extended up and out to cater for current space requirements. It is unlikely that any external funding would be available for such a project.

Could the project proceed without external funding?

No. The project requires external funding in order for it to go ahead.

When will ratepayers get to vote yes or no to the project?

The public will have the opportunity to have their say at the next 10 year plan proposals put up for public consultation in 2011.

Why do we need a new Museum?

Because a new Museum will have the space and the facilities to: