Council confirms its commitment to Mahara Gallery Upgrade

Plans to build a new purpose-built integrated Public Gallery and Library in Waikanae are still firmly in the Council’s sights following the renewal of an agreement for the Mahara Gallery Upgrade.

The new agreement between the Council, the Mahara Gallery Trust and the Field Collection Trust recognises opportunities created by the Council’s planned refurbishment of the Waikanae Library and work to transform and improve the Waikanae town centre.

Group Manager Corporate Services Wayne Maxwell says the Council has been working with the Mahara Gallery Trust and Field Collection Trust to achieve the upgrade of the Gallery since 2009.

“At the same time we’ve been planning for the refurbishment and upgrade of the Waikanae Library,” he says.

“The close proximity of the two buildings presents us with a unique opportunity to create a shared gallery and library facility. This will significantly improve the built environment at Mahara Place and will enable the Mahara Gallery to provide a high-quality venue and visitor experience.”

Council has made provision for funding its one-third of the estimated $5,205 million project cost in its Long term plan.

The Mahara Gallery Trust has fundraising efforts underway to raise the remaining two-thirds of the total project cost.