Demolition Consent Declined for Whanganui Heritage Building

Heritage NZ’s latest email newsletter has reported that a demolition consent application for Thain’s Building in Whanganui has been declined.   Independent Commissioner, Rob Van Voorthuysen, has declined consent to demolish the 110-year-old Thain’s Building on the corner of Taupo Quay and Victoria Avenue in Whanganui.  The applicant owner sought...

Continue reading

St James Theatre restoration on hold

The restoration of the St James Theatre is on hold at present, due to the proposed associated apartment complex not proceeding. A $250m 39-level apartment building was meant to be built next to it, but that’s been cancelled. Steve Bielby, in charge of the restoration, said all works were suspended....

Continue reading

Winter Lecture 2: Holy Trinity Cathedral Tour

The Bishop Selwyn Chapel, opened in 2016, has completed the Holy Trinity Cathedral complex in Parnell, and was the catalyst for the Civic Trust guided tour of the complex on Sunday, 2 September. We learnt about the history of the various elements that make up the cathedral complex, with the chancel...

Continue reading

Winter Lecture 2: Holy Trinity Cathedral Tour

The Bishop Selwyn Chapel, opened in 2016, has completed the Holy Trinity Cathedral complex in Parnell, and was the catalyst for the Civic Trust guided tour of the complex on Sunday, 2 September. We learnt about the history of the various elements that make up the cathedral complex, with the chancel...

Continue reading

Heartland Heritage at risk in the regions

Bill McKay from the Architecture faculty at the University of Auckland had a very thoughtful discussion on Radio NZ today, about the risk to heritage in the regions, following the legislation enacted after the Christchurch earthquakes. He points out that many heritage buildings in the regions are either empty or...

Continue reading

Planning Problems for Auckland Council

In recent days Auckland Council has had two planning decisions go against it. Yesterday there was extensive media coverage on the decision by the Environment Court to make over 400 building consents no longer current. Following on from the new rules in the Unitary Plan, council had issued consents under...

Continue reading

Devonport Cottage new Heritage NZ listing

Heritage New Zealand’s recent listing of this Devonport cottage is showcased on their Facebook page: Over 140 years old, this worker’s cottage is a Devonport heritage classic. Built by master builder Arthur Mofflin – who worked at the nearby Niccol’s boatyard – the newly Category 2-listed house reflects the skills...

Continue reading