Full interior refurbishment and comprehensive seismic upgrade of the Category 1 listed Rotorua Museum, originally constructed in 1908. The building contains significant heritage features, including historic bath structures and period finishes, all of which must be protected throughout construction. Works include major structural strengthening, complete roof replacement, service upgrades, heritage restoration, and extensive internal reconfiguration to meet modern building standards while preserving the integrity of this nationally significant landmark.

SCOPE OF WORKS

Strengthening works include:

● Full roof replacement, including sarking repairs and new plywood diaphragms

● Salvage and reinstatement of heritage roof tiles and turret components

● Carbon fibre (FRCM) strengthening to walls, columns, beams, and floor structures

● Structural steel bracing to walls and high-level truss areas

● New shear walls, needle beams, and extensive foundation upgrades

● Installation of CLT elements and associated structural fixings

● Diagrid steel strengthening to first-floor areas

● New lift shaft construction and lift installation

● Strengthening works to turrets, vaulted ceilings, and heritage trusses

Building services upgrades include:

● Full mechanical upgrade, including fresh air systems, basement ventilation and scrubbed air supply for galleries

● New electrical switchboards, security systems, and general reticulation

● Fire system upgrades, including reactivated exits, sprinkler relocation, emergency lighting and new egress routes

● New lighting throughout—including heritage feature lighting and contemporary lighting for new spaces

Interior refurbishment includes:

● Alterations to achieve accessible access to at least 90% of public spaces

● New café, kitchen and supporting services

● New conference/community room spaces

● New storage rooms and service areas

● New toilets and infant change facilities

● Reinstatement and protection of existing heritage tiles, joinery, windows, and finishes

● Skylight removals and reinstatement, ceiling repairs, bespoke heritage carpentry, and high-quality interior finishes

BROADER OUTCOMES

This project is of significant cultural and community value to Rotorua, Aotearoa, and international visitors. Watts & Hughes supported local employment pathways through WACT (WERA Aotearoa Charitable Trust), providing on-site work experience opportunities for newcomers to the construction industry.

Seven participants joined the site team for two days per week between July–October 2024, gaining foundational construction experience and industry exposure. As a result, Shane Moore Services offered five participants varying contracts, SABRE offered one full-time role, and another participant completed their placement and confidently secured industry employment. Additional trainees are completing MEWP and forklift qualifications to prepare for future work experience opportunities, including placements targeted toward scaffolding roles.