MEDIA RELEASE
8 September 2005

Historic apartment building gains heritage protection

Heritage enthusiasts are today celebrating the protection of one of Auckland’s earliest examples of Auckland apartment living, Mt Eden’s Marino Gardens.

Auckland City’s Planning and Regulatory Committee is recommending to council the scheduling of the Marino Gardens apartment complex as category B buildings in the Isthmus section of the District Plan.

Marino Gardens, at 145 – 147 Mt Eden Road, was constructed in 1935-36 and won a ‘Gold Medal’ from the Institute of Architects in 1936.

The complex includes a large two storey brick-plastered moderne style apartment building of 18 apartments with art deco features.

These buildings are a leading early example of a change in character in suburban dwellings, the ‘flats versus houses’ concept.

“I am delighted to make this recommendation to council to protect such a fine example of Auckland’s moderne architecture,” says Councillor Christine Caughey, acting chairperson of the Planning and Regulatory Committee.

“This announcement comes just prior to Auckland City’s Heritage Week celebrations,
12 – 18 September, and supports the commitment this council has to protecting our city’s heritage,” says Ms Caughey.

The buildings and site were evaluated by council heritage staff who scored the complex at 64 points, a score which signals strong heritage value. Category B buildings are deemed to be of such quality and character that they should not be demolished, damaged or altered in a significant way unless there is a compelling reason.

ENDS

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