Fixed-term leases of Council buildings

We own and manage nearly 280 buildings across our district, including administration buildings, halls, libraries, pools, public toilets, older person housing and infrastructure in our parks and reserves.

From time to time we also inherit buildings that have been built on Council-owned land and relinquished to us by the owner or operator.

Lease agreements for key community buildings

We have historic fixed and long-term lease agreements in place with community and interest groups for some of our buildings.

These agreements are managed by our Property team and ensure buildings in key locations are used strategically for the benefit of our communities. Some are larger buildings in our town centres such as Mahara Gallery and the Ōtaki Civic Theatre, and others are smaller buildings used for recreational purposes like those in Matthews, Weka and Kena Kena Parks, for example.

Process for leasing a Council building

Generally, when we have a healthy and safe building in a recreation reserve appropriate for fixed or long-term lease, we seek expressions of interest from potential tenants.

Permitted activities in recreational reserves are governed by the Reserves Act 1977 and the Conservation Act 1987. To be considered as a tenant, a potential lessee must also intend to use the building for activities consistent with the purpose of the reserve.

Specifically, your facilities would need to:

• be for public enjoyment
• support the use of the reserve for outdoor sports, games or other recreational activities
• any trade, business, or occupation needs to enable the public to obtain the benefit and enjoyment of the reserve.

Proposals are reviewed by a panel of Council staff representing different interest areas and weighed against set criteria consistent with the purpose of the land. Recommendations are put to senior leadership for a decision.

If the successful lessee confirms they would like to enter into a lease agreement, the proposed lease would be publicly notified in local newspapers on and our website for a month.

Any objections to the lease would be heard by Council at the next available meeting and they would make a decision.

Former Raumati Pool complex, Marine Parade Gardens

There is strong community interest in the potential development of the former Raumati Pool complex in Marine Parade Gardens.

The site housed public indoor swimming facilities and was closed 12 years ago when Coastlands Aquatic Centre opened. The facility was decommissioned at the time which involved removing the mechanical plant from the building. No further remedial works have been undertaken.

To better understand the work required to get the building healthy, safe and legislatively compliant to lease, we have commissioned a number of reports including a detailed seismic assessment and a condition survey.

We expect to receive these reports by early July 2023. We will then plan our next steps based on the findings.

Through our Long-term Plan 2021-41, there is $51,000 budgeted for remedial works on the complex over the next two financial years. We are keen to explore options for the future use of the building that improve vibrancy in the area and reflect the aspirations of the community. Further funding, if required, would be subject to a Council decision.