Masterton District Council has made a clear decision to purchase its existing Customer Service Centre at 161 Queen Street, rather than proceed with the $8.7 million Waiata House extension approved in the 2024 - 34 Long Term Plan.

Chief Executive, Kym Fell believes the new approach is the right call for Masterton and its ratepayers.

“I was not prepared to push ahead with an $8.7 million build when I saw the costs, risks, and benefits weren’t stacking up, so pushed pause to explore how we could deliver the same outcomes for less. After considering several alternative options, purchasing 161 Queen Street was a smart and more financially responsible decision. It saves millions of dollars, eliminates ongoing lease costs, and still delivers the facilities our community needs.”

Mr Fell says while an IL4-rated purpose-built facility would have been ideal on paper, the additional cost of including civil defence and emergency operations facilities would have pushed the project beyond budget - with no guarantee the building would be usable after a major earthquake.

“This decision reflects the Council’s commitment to making sure every ratepayer dollar is spent wisely, with real value in return.”

The Council’s newly adopted plan will see the 161 Queen Street site purchased and refitted to retain the customer service centre but include a modern, accessible Council Chamber and Emergency Operations Centre, at a cost of $3.5 million - less than half the original project budget.

“This option delivers on all fronts - it provides a valuable asset in the heart of our CBD, ensures our services remain accessible and visible, and represents long-term savings for ratepayers. It’s about being pragmatic, sensible, and putting Masterton first.”

Mayor Gary Caffell fully supported the shift in direction, noting the financial and community benefits.

“Keeping our customer services on Queen Street makes perfect sense - it keeps Council accessible, supports local businesses through foot traffic, and offers convenience with buses and parking right on the doorstep. This is the right move for our community.”

The Queen Street building has an NBS (New Building Standard) rating of 85% following a seismic assessment. Once the purchase process is complete, Council will begin refitting the building, with timelines to be confirmed.

Back-office staff currently based at Queen Street will relocate to Waiata House, freeing the building for public-facing services.

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